There’s A New Tariff In Town
Tariffs are Back
Unsurprisingly, a wave of new tariffs is coming, and they could hit musicians in ways they didn’t expect. Too many independent artists don’t think about how policy changes affect their business until it’s too late. Now is the time to prepare before these costs start cutting into profits.
The Music Industry Has Been Here Before
During the 2016–2020 period, tariffs imposed as part of the U.S.-China trade war led to higher costs for instruments, amplifiers, synthesizers, pedals, and other essential equipment. Tariffs on Chinese-made electronic components increased from an average of 3.1% in 2017 to 24.3% by 2019. This forced manufacturers like Fender, Gibson, and Moog to adjust pricing, with some even moving production overseas to offset rising costs. Independent artists and small studios, which often rely on affordable imported gear, were particularly affected.
International touring has also become increasingly expensive due to rising visa fees, higher tax burdens on foreign earnings, and shifting international trade agreements. Many countries have increased costs for U.S. artists seeking work visas, making it harder for independent musicians to afford overseas tours. The combination of these financial pressures means artists need to be more strategic about their touring plans to remain profitable.
What Every Artist Should Know
Gear and Instruments Will Cost More
A lot of guitars, amps, synths, and recording equipment are made overseas. If tariffs go up on imports from China and Europe, prices could jump. If you need new gear, now might be the time to get it.
Merch Prices Could Go Up
Most shirts, vinyl, and other merch come from international manufacturers. If you’re importing, higher tariffs could drive up production costs, making it harder to keep prices fan-friendly while still making a profit.
One way to cut costs is by using U.S.-based suppliers for sales and tours at home while keeping international suppliers for local production on overseas tours. This can help avoid tariffs and lower shipping costs.
Companies like Solid Merch and Deluxe offer competitive pricing on shirts and general merch, while Disc Makers specializes in vinyl and CDs but also provides some promotional items. If you haven’t explored domestic suppliers yet, now might be the time to switch.
Touring Internationally Gets More Complicated
Artists are already struggling with touring costs, and tariffs could make it worse. If you play overseas, you might see:
Higher costs to ship gear as importing and exporting gets more expensive.
More expensive visas as many countries raise fees for touring artists.
Fluctuating exchange rates that could mean less money in your pocket.
Streaming and Digital Distribution Could Shift
If tariffs affect tech imports and cloud-based services, streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music might raise prices, adjust royalties, or change ad rates. This could impact both musicians and fans alike, making it more expensive to distribute or consume music.
What Artists Can Do to Stay Ahead
✅ Lock in prices now and order merch and gear before costs go up.
✅ Diversify your revenue streams with direct-to-fan sales, Patreon, exclusive content, and other ways to bring in money.
✅ Source merch locally for international tours and within the U.S. If you play often in Europe, the UK, Australia, or Japan, printing merch where you tour could save money on shipping, tariffs, and customs delays. If you’re based in the U.S., switching to domestic suppliers like Solid Merch, Deluxe, or Disc Makers could help avoid tariff-driven price hikes.
✅ Stay informed on policy changes, especially if you tour internationally or rely on overseas suppliers. Take advantage of good exchange rates while they last.
✅ Consider bundling and pre-orders to lock in lower costs and avoid last-minute price jumps.
✅ Explore collaborations, bulk-ordering merch with other artists, or using crowdfunding campaigns to offset rising costs.
Should the Industry Be Doing More?
Industry leaders should be advocating for tariff exemptions on musical instruments and merch, as well as streamlined visa processes for touring artists. History has shown that collective advocacy can drive real change. In the past, lobbying efforts by NARAS and major labels have shaped copyright laws, and trade groups have successfully pushed for reduced import taxes on specific music-related goods. One example is the Music Modernization Act, which improved streaming royalty structures for artists. Similar efforts could influence trade policies that ease financial burdens on musicians today.
If policymakers want to force musicians and other creatives to buy American, they also need to provide meaningful tax incentives. Major labels like UMG, WEA, and Sony should be leading the charge, as they have the biggest influence in the industry. A rising tide lifts all boats, and if major labels push for tax breaks that support domestic manufacturing, independent artists will benefit as well. Likewise, NARAS (The Recording Academy) should be leading advocacy efforts alongside the major labels, as they hold significant sway in industry policy discussions. These organizations have the leverage to influence trade policy and must use it to fight for practical solutions.
Additionally, A2IM (American Association of Independent Music) needs to step up and ensure independent artists are not left behind in these discussions. While they may not have the same level of influence as the major labels or NARAS, their advocacy for indie musicians is crucial, especially as tariffs disproportionately impact smaller artists and businesses.
Final Thoughts
As trade policies continue to evolve, the next legislative cycle could determine whether tariffs stay or shift. Now is the time for artists, industry leaders, and policymakers to push for changes that protect musicians at all levels.
For independent artists, the financial situation is already challenging. Between rising streaming costs, changing touring logistics, and now tariffs, musicians need to think strategically about their long-term business plans.
Tariffs, visa hikes, and shifting economic policies are squeezing musicians from all sides. Without industry-wide advocacy, independent artists will bear the brunt of these costs. The next few months will be critical for advocacy efforts. Whether the industry steps up or stays silent, independent artists can’t afford to wait. Now is the time to push for real change.
If you have thoughts or strategies, feel free to reach out or share your perspective. I’d love to hear from you.











