Tariffs on China could raise some fireworks costs

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - 96% of fireworks sold in the U.S. are imported from China. Fireworks retailers say tariff’s on China will increase the cost of some fireworks, but price increases won’t be widespread.

“There will be an effect on it this year. I think you’ll see more of it next year,” said Josh Galati.

Galati operates 2 Fireworks City stands in St. Charles, near I-70 and 5th Avenue. He said most fireworks are purchased a year in advance, so most of the products sold this summer were purchased from Chinese manufacturers before the tariffs went up.

He said the fireworks orders that are being taking now for next year, could be impacted significantly by high tariffs, unless negotiations lower them.

“They might want to think about stocking up this year,” he said.

Warrenton Wholesale Fireworks is a high-volume fireworks seller. Warehouse manager, Josh Romake, said the company has taken the stand that it won’t raise prices because of tariffs.

“Our plan is we’re going to keep prices the same. And we’re going to try and eat that extra cost of the tariffs and keep the price of the product low for the consumer,” he said.

Warrenton Wholesale Fireworks operates year-round and is located in a permanent building. Temporary seasonal fireworks stands are allowed to open, beginning on June 20th.

Missouri imports the most fireworks per capita of any state, an estimated $85 million in 2024.

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