Some fireworks companies are expressing concerns that tariffs might lead to supply shortages ahead of America’s 250th birthday in 2026. The American Fireworks Association has highlighted issues with accessing new products.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As the Fourth of July approaches, the fireworks industry is hopeful for a successful season, but there’s anxiety about ongoing trade tensions with China that could dampen sales as we near the country’s 250th anniversary.
Fireworks distributors are particularly eager for fireworks to be excluded from President Donald Trump’s tariffs on imports from China. Currently, tariffs sit at 30% after a temporary agreement between the U.S. and China to pause a scheduled increase. At one point, these tariffs reached as high as 145% in April.
However, there’s the possibility that these tariffs could be reinstated when the suspension expires in August.
“It’s been a constantly changing situation with tariffs — a real roller coaster since February,” noted Julie Heckman, the executive director of the American Fireworks Association.
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Fireworks are embedded in American culture, yet they heavily rely on production from China.
The APA reports that about 99% of consumer fireworks in the U.S. come from China, and around 90% of professional display fireworks share the same origin. Heckman stated, “It’s nearly impossible to manufacture fireworks in the U.S. The process is quite intricate and everything is handcrafted.” She added, “Working with explosives is no small feat; they react to heat, humidity, and friction, making the job very risky.”
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While prices for fireworks remained stable this July 4th, there are warnings of potential low supplies for newly imported products. Leaders in the industry suspect that prices for fireworks could increase over the next year.
“Many importers reached out to their suppliers in China, urging them not to send any products, as they couldn’t bear the 145% duties,” said Heckman.
Nashville hosts one of the largest public fireworks displays in the country, with an impressive show planned over the Cumberland River for July 4th, featuring 40,000 pounds of fireworks over 30 minutes.
Hughes, who heads Lansden Hill, mentioned that his team secured the fireworks for this year’s celebration last year. “The fireworks we’re using now weren’t influenced by any new tariffs; they’ve been sourced across multiple containers throughout the year,” he noted.
The Fourth of July celebrations bring significant economic benefits to host cities. Last year, Nashville drew over 355,000 attendees, with about 60% being visitors, according to the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp.
Deana Ivey, the NCVC president and CEO, pointed out that during the July 4th holiday, visitors typically book around 30,000 hotel rooms and contribute approximately $17.5 million to the local economy.
“These revenues support local services like schools and public safety,” Ivey explained.
