Starting at the beginning of 2018, the United States has placed tariffs on certain Chinese goods in hopes of reducing the American trade deficit with China. Because some of the goods receiving tariffs are used in the glass industry, many of our clients have been concerned over how this will affect our products. At St. Louis Glass Works, we believe it is important to discuss what this means for our clients and what to anticipate in the months to come. While we cannot be completely sure of everything that will happen, we can explain what we currently know and what we can expect.
What’s Being Affected
Starting September 24, 2018, Chinese materials used within the glazing, metal, and glass industries were strapped with a 10% tariff. This amount will increase to 25% starting January 1, 2019.
Included on the tariff list at this time are:
- Safety glass
- Glass in fused quartz or other fused silica
- Glazing, pigments, enamels, colors, and lusters for glass
- Glass Frit
- Glass Mirrors
- Base metal door closers and other base metal parts
- Aluminum for channel glass walls
Many companies within the glass industry are finding that the fluctuation in pricing has made it difficult to anticipate when suppliers will receive materials necessary to complete products. Companies have had to scramble to gather various materials and have sought out different suppliers as a result. While companies are trying their best to continue to produce quality products at comparable prices, the market has grown volatile, and it’s hard to know what will happen next.
What to Expect
We are pledged to offer our customers the same high-grade products delivered on time. To do this, it’s important for us to be upfront and explain that it has been difficult to get parts as quickly as we have in the past. If you are concerned that this might affect your deadline, one of the most helpful things is to be proactive with your projects so we can work together to remain within your schedule. We advise that you contact us as soon as you win a project so we can order any necessary parts immediately in case they are delayed.
We understand that this unpredictability within the industry can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience at this time. As always, we are grateful for the opportunity to work with you and will continue to make your projects shine!
Thank you.