As global trade policies evolve, changes in tariff regulations will significantly affect the cost and availability of optical products, including frames, lenses, and equipment used throughout the supply chain. To keep its members informed and supported during this period of change, The Vision Council held a webinar on April 9 to offer to offer timely updates and educational resources. The session was led by Rick Van Arnam, Regulatory Affairs Counsel, and Omar Elkhatib, Senior Manager of Government Relations. A recording of the webinar is available upon request by emailing media@thevisioncouncil.org.
Another webinar providing the latest tariff developments and best practices for future business planning and compliance will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at 2:00 p.m. ET. Members can register here.
On April 9, 2025, President Donald J. Trump announced a 90-day pause on the newly implemented country-specific “reciprocal” tariff increases for countries that have not retaliated, offering temporary relief and stability for many in the industry. All non-retaliating countries were returned to 10%, except for China. Instead, China's reciprocal duty rate was raised sharply to 145%, first reported as a 125% tariff, but clarified on April 10 to include the additional 20% already imposed on China for its role in supplying fentanyl to the United States (referred to below as the IEEPA duty). This move may heavily impact optical companies relying on Chinese manufacturing or imports.
According to The Vision Council, optical products imported from China are now facing significantly elevated tariffs, creating substantial cost implications for importers. Plastic eyeglass frames are among the most heavily impacted, now subject to a combined tariff rate of approximately 155%. Other essential items such as over-the-counter reading glasses, complete eyeglasses, safety glasses, and goggles imported from China are also now taxed at a combined rate of 155%,while sunglasses carry a slightly lower rate of 154.5%. In addition, a broad range of optical accessories and equipment, including eyeglass cases, lens processing systems, and optical manufacturing machinery, will now be subject to combined tariff rates estimated between 170% and 190%. These increases present serious challenges for U.S. companies that depend on Chinese suppliers for both finished goods and components.
