Tariffs have been placed on smart phones, computers, and semiconductors made in China from 145%  to 20%, but this figure could change at any time.  So what about tariffs on musical instruments?  Apparently the NAMM president sent a letter to the Trump administration begging for low or no tariffs on them.

According to different sources, 40% to 60% of all musical instruments are made in China, and the percentage is much higher on woodwinds, brass, and violins.  Fender claims that tariffs on products from Mexico and China will increase their costs by 20 to 25 million bucks on their guitars and amps.  But my questions is, will tariffs affect musicians when it comes to actually playing gigs?

For international performing bands I can see how tariffs could affect their traveling costs, merch sales, and customs hassles, and promoters might raise ticket prices to offset this, while other promoters may just book local acts to avoid tariff related costs.  But I don’t see how tariffs could hinder the majority of club and festival and casual bands playing in the US, but maybe I’m missing something.  Hmmm…..What do you think?