How Trump’s Tariff Affects Thai Craft — and Costs You More
Dear Valued Clients,
A difficult time has arrived. We want to be completely transparent and inform you about a major change in US trade policy that will directly impact the import of Thai products, including our mulberry papers.
In summary:
- If you're not in the US, there's no need to worry about this.
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A 36% US import tariff on Thai products, including our handmade papers, will take effect on April 9, 2025. The rate is currently 0%.
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We'll still charge 0% tax on our end but this tariff will increase the total landed cost of your orders and may delay delivery due to customs procedures.
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We are working to find ways to reduce product prices and support our US customers.
What Has Happened?
On April 2, 2025, the US government announced a new Reciprocal Tariff Regime aimed at balancing trade relationships with key exporting countries. Under this policy, the United States will impose a 36% import tariff specifically on Thai products, effective April 9, 2025. This new tariff is part of a broader trade policy shift and replaces the previous low tariff rate (which was typically 0%) applied to handmade and eco-friendly products like ours.
How Does This Impact You?
For all US customers and importers of Kozo Studio mulberry papers:
- Beginning April 9, 2025, a 36% import duty will be applied by US Customs when our products arrive at the port of entry.
- While Kozo Studio does not impose any export taxes from Thailand, this new tariff means that US customers will likely be responsible for paying the duty upon the products’ arrival. As a result, the total landed cost of our handmade papers will rise significantly, which may impact retail pricing, project budgets, and overall purchasing plans.
- Additionally, customs clearance procedures may take longer, potentially affecting delivery timelines.
Why This Matters
At Kozo Studio, we believe in sharing the beauty of handcrafted, sustainable, and culturally meaningful products. Unfortunately, this new tariff policy stands in direct opposition to those values. We want to be fully transparent with you about its impact so you can plan accordingly.
Is there an exception?
As of now, there are no publicly announced product-specific exemptions to the newly implemented US tariffs on Thai imports. Given the absence of specific exemptions, it's prudent for businesses like us to assume that the 36% tariff will apply to our paper exports to the US. Staying informed about any developments or announcements from the USTR is essential, as future opportunities for exclusions or adjustments may arise. We will inform you of that development.
Let’s Work Together
We are actively exploring ways to reduce our product prices for the US market in the near future to help ease the overall cost burden for our customers. Your partnership and continued support of our handmade paper community in Thailand mean a great deal to us.
If you would like to discuss how this change may affect your current or upcoming orders, or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us directly at admin@kozo.studio. We are here to support you.
Warm regards,
The Kozo Studio Team
