Foreign Print Tariffs News Update
Overseas printing is facing big challenges in 2025. For instance, trade tensions between the US and China are driving up costs for printers. Although there’s talk of easing tariffs, uncertainties remain. Meanwhile, shipping fees and potential port charges add to the burden. Printing Partners offers a better way—reliable printing in the USA with no surprises.

Overseas Print Costs Are Rising in 2025
High Tariffs Persist
The US has set a 145% tariff on Chinese imports, while China has a 125% tariff on US goods (Bloomberg). These rates, in place since April, hit printing hard. However, recent talks signal hope for relief (Yahoo Finance).
Possible Relief Ahead
For example, the US and China are discussing tariff reductions, with China considering exemptions to its 125% rates (Bloomberg). Markets are steadying, but nothing’s confirmed yet. So, the trade war’s impact on printing costs remains a concern.
Shipping Costs from Overseas
Shipping Fees Add Up
Shipping from China adds up, even with the tariff break. For a $100 print order (10 kg), air freight costs $50-$100 ($5-$10 per kg), totaling $157.50-$207.50. Meanwhile, sea freight costs $150-$300, totaling $257.50-$407.50 (Xeneta).
Port Fee Concerns
Additionally, proposed port fees could raise shipping costs further. These fees might pass on hundreds or thousands to your order, making overseas printing even less appealing.

Your Solution
Why roll the dice with overseas printing? Printing Partners in the USA gives you a steady, stress-free option that saves money and time.
- No Tariffs or Fees: Why deal with trade chaos? Printing Partners in the USA keeps it simple. For example, a $100 job stays near $100—no tariffs, no shipping fees, no port fee risks.
- Fast Delivery: Local printing means no long shipping waits. So, your books, brochures, or puzzles arrive in days—not weeks. Plus, you avoid global trade drama.
- Support the USA: Choosing us supports American jobs. Additionally, you get steady pricing and quality you can trust, no matter what happens overseas.
Check out our services.
How Printing Partners Keeps Costs Low
- Tariff-Free: No US tariff that effects print applies to our work.
- Stable Supplies: Long-established ties with U.S. paper and ink vendors mean we dodge tariffs on raw materials.
- Fast Service: Local printing cuts shipping delays from foreign supply chains.
We handle books, puzzles, catalogs, and more with no tariff markup. Check our setup at www.printingpartners.net/equipment-list. Businesses are already asking us to quote jobs they’re pulling from foreign suppliers.
Indianapolis: Your Printing Advantage
In Indianapolis, the crossroads of America, we save you time and money. Our central location beats coastal shipping costs and avoids retaliatory tariffs. With access to major highways and rail networks, Indianapolis ensures your print jobs move quickly across the U.S., cutting delivery times by days compared to ports like Los Angeles or New York. This efficiency means you get your projects faster without the delays often tied to international shipping.
Printing Partners takes full advantage of Indy’s benefits to deliver for you. Our established relationships with local vendors and our central hub position let us streamline production and distribution, keeping your costs low and your deadlines met.
Conclusion
The 145% US tariff and China’s 125% tariff make foreign printing pricey, even with exemptions (Bloomberg). Talks might ease tensions, but risks like port fees remain (Yahoo Finance).
Print with Printing Partners in the USA instead. Keep costs at ~$100, skip delays, and avoid trade traps. Contact us today at PrintingPartners.net!

About the Author
Kraig Downham is the Marketing Director at Printing Partners, a key player in offset commercial printing. Since 2005, he has contributed to marketing, design, and technology at Printing Partners. As a color expert, Kraig ensures high-quality prints. His work ethic and dedication come from a 10-year journey with 4-H. Learn more about Kraig's work at Printing Partners.
- Article Written April 9, 2025