Amid rising tensions in the U.S.-China trade war, American consumers are facing the prospect of steep bicycle price hikes.
What Happened: The cycling industry, already under pressure, is warning of potential bankruptcies and mergers as a result, reported the Financial Times on Friday. The tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump are heavily impacting an industry largely reliant on Chinese manufacturing. Arnold Kamler, chair of family-owned Kent International, one of the largest U.S. bike manufacturers, warned that industry-wide prices could surge by up to 50% if the current tariff levels persist.
Approximately 90% of the 12.5 million bikes sold annually by US brands are imported, with the majority manufactured in China. Other significant producers include Taiwan, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The U.S. president announced new tariffs of 125% …