How U.S.–China Tariffs Are Driving Up School Supply Costs in 2025
Overview: 2025 Tariffs and School Supplies
U.S. trade policy toward China in 2025 continues to impose steep import tariffs on a wide range of goods – including many common school supplies. These tariffs are part of an ongoing trade dispute, and under current policy the tariffs on Chinese imports have surged to unprecedented levels (around 125% on most Chinese goods). Many tariffs that began in prior years remain ongoing, and additional or reinstated tariffs have been layered on in 2025 – some newly imposed or sharply increased after a temporary pause. The result is a “trade war” tariff regime that directly impacts the pricing and availability of everyday school items.
Below we break down how specific school supply categories – from backpacks to electronics – are affected by these tariffs, what it means for prices and supply in 2025, and which major brands are likely to be impacted.
🎒 Backpacks and School Bags
Brands Affected: JanSport, High Sierra
Chinese-made backpacks, lunch totes, and school bags now face very high import tariffs (~125%), translating into higher costs for U.S. buyers. These tariffs were newly elevated in 2025.
Impact: Consumers can expect higher prices on JanSport and other backpack brands. Some companies are shifting production to Vietnam or India to reduce reliance on Chinese factories.
📓 Stationery and Paper Goods (Notebooks, Paper, Pens & Pencils)
Brands Affected: Five Star (Mead), Ticonderoga, Paper Mate
Stationery items from China (notebooks, pencils, pens) now face tariffs of 125–145%. These include cumulative duties from past and new tariff layers.
Impact: Five Star notebooks and Ticonderoga pencils are seeing increased wholesale costs. Some brands are moving production out of China; others may pass the cost to consumers. School districts are already experiencing paper price volatility.
🧮 Calculators and Basic Electronics
Brands Affected: Texas Instruments, Casio
Small electronics like calculators now face ~125% tariffs if imported from China.
Impact: Prices for Texas Instruments calculators could rise. Retailers may adjust inventory or shift sourcing. Some sellers on Amazon may exit due to cost pressures.
💻 Tablets and Laptops (Higher-End Electronics)
Brands Affected: Apple (iPad), Lenovo, Acer, HP
Laptops and tablets were exempted from the steep 125% tariffs in April 2025 but still face a new 20% tariff.
Impact: While price hikes have been avoided for now, brands like Lenovo or Acer may still increase prices moderately. Many schools pre-ordered before the tariff change, and tech brands are reviewing long-term manufacturing strategies.
✏️ Art Supplies, Glue & Accessories
Brands Affected: Crayola, Elmer’s
Crayons, markers, and adhesives partially sourced from China may be impacted by the new 125%+ tariffs depending on the material origin.
Impact: Crayola and Elmer’s may see cost increases for specific items or components. Consumers could experience higher prices or fewer product choices if some SKUs become less viable to import.
👛 Summary Table: Tariff Effects on Key School Supply Brands (2025)
| Product Category | Example Brands | Tariff Status | Market Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacks & Bags | JanSport, High Sierra | ~125% if from China | Higher retail prices, potential sourcing shift |
| Notebooks & Paper | Five Star (Mead), Paper Mate | ~145% tariff | Increased costs, potential shortages |
| Pencils & Writing Tools | Ticonderoga | ~125–145% | Prices up, especially on multi-pack basics |
| Calculators & Electronics | Texas Instruments, Casio | ~125% | Costlier, limited inventory from China |
| Tablets & Laptops | Apple, Lenovo, Acer, HP | ~20% (exempt from 125%) | Slight price rise, but stable supply |
| Art Supplies & Glue | Crayola, Elmer’s | ~125%+ for some items | Slight to moderate increases depending on item |
🛍️ Closing Thoughts
In 2025, U.S.–China tariffs are an important factor to consider when shopping for school supplies. Many popular brands are affected, and these trade policies may lead to increased costs, reduced variety, or longer delivery times. Families and schools should plan ahead, look for alternative sourcing (e.g., “Made in Vietnam”), and consider buying early to avoid peak-season pricing spikes.
Stay tuned on our blog as we continue tracking these shifts and provide updated Amazon picks that offer the best deals — even amid the tariffs.