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Several religious goods industry professionals have shared concerns about the potential impact of the Trump administration's recent tariffs on their operations and customers. Bridget Bowden, board president of the National Church Goods Association in Glen Ellen, Illinois, expressed uncertainty, stating, “We are still trying to figure that out, to be honest.”
On April 2, President Donald Trump announced new tariffs aimed at creating a "reciprocal" trade plan to reset U.S. international commerce. The plan imposes a minimum 10% tariff on almost all U.S. trading partners, with some 60 nations facing higher rates. China is subject to the most significant tariff at 145%.
The tariffs have caused market disruptions, prompting nations to negotiate with the U.S. government. On April 9, a 90-day pause was announced for higher tariffs for most countries while maintaining the 10% minimum and China's 145% rate. China responded with an 84% tax.
Bowden commented on potential impacts, "The tariffs definitely — if they are staying in place — will make a difference, especially for retail items. We will be seeing increases in our cost, which turn (into) increases for customers." James Dean, president of William J. Hirten Co., a wholesale religious goods distributor based in Attleboro, Massachusetts, noted, “If it comes in with a tariff, it’s going to have to reflect that price.”
The company informed customers through a website alert that current prices are valid until May 19, but backordered items might face price changes due to fluctuating tariffs. The supply chain for religious goods spans several countries, with certain items, such as sacramental wine and Communion hosts, produced domestically, while China supplies some smaller gift items and artwork.
China is also a significant marble supplier, although Italy and other European Union nations remain top exporters. Countries like Spain, Italy, Belgium, and Poland provide many religious goods to the U.S.
Robert C. Johnson, an international economist and associate professor at the University of Notre Dame, explained the complexity of the supply chain and how tariffs affect pricing. "There’s a chain of people involved in importing goods,” Johnson said, potentially complicating the pass-through of tariffs to prices.
Johnson added that tariffs are not always fully reflected in import prices, especially if foreign suppliers lower markups to absorb some of the tariffs. Despite uncertainties, industry professionals like DiCocco and Dean remain optimistic. DiCocco mentioned a post-COVID rebound, while Dean suggested it was "about time" for tariff increases, highlighting economic challenges faced by the industry.
Johnson warned of the ongoing "tit-for-tat" tariff battle with China and possible global trade relationship erosion. “If the current turmoil leads to genuine negotiations that stabilize the global trading system, then that would be a good outcome,” he expressed, although he remained “skeptical.”
Gina Christian reported this article as a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina.
