The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and close to 200 million Americans have participated in the 2025 Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Although Black Friday shopping is traditionally done in-store, statistics show that 87 million people shopped online, while 81 million people shopped in person. Compared to last year, the online Black Shopping trend has increased by 3%, but at the same time, the selling price of items has increased by 7%, according to a CNN article.
Experts suggest that the price increase on goods is likely due to President Trump’s new tariff policies. Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods. When an American President raises tariffs, it means that they are attempting to encourage Americans to buy American-made goods instead of goods that are imported from other countries. However, high tariffs can make it challenging for both consumers and businesses to afford the costs of the imported goods they rely on. According to a CNN article, tariff costs have not been this high since 1935.
The home goods industry is the perfect example of how high tariffs have impacted holiday shopping for both consumers and businesses. Prices for home goods like furniture, decor, appliances, etc., spiked as high as 24% more expensive than usual. In October, President Trump placed tariffs on countries like Vietnam and India, which are countries where the United States imports many furniture products. Other industries, such as electronics and clothing, have also jumped in price by nearly 10%, according to CNN.
Although President Trump has previously claimed that tariffs should not affect prices for consumers, he stated in a Cabinet meeting in April that high tariffs might mean that Americans buy less. Trump stated that it might be a good thing for Americans to “not feed the beast” of consumerism. However, holiday shopping serves as a beloved cultural tradition, as well as a significant economic boost, supporting employment and businesses. To combat the raised prices for many holiday gifts, Americans will have to look a little further into what they are buying for their loved ones. This holiday season, shopping for American-made goods or second-hand products might be the way to get the best deal.
Madeline Wall
Staff Reporter
