Tag: GlobalTrade

Tariffs Are Shrinking Holiday Shopping Lists

Michelle Schulz discusses rising consumer costs on KCBS Radio

As the holiday season approaches, many consumers are discovering that their shopping lists are shorter than usual—not by choice, but by necessity. In a recent KCBS Radio segment, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Consulting, explained how tariffs are playing a major role in driving up prices on everyday goods, particularly during peak gift-buying season.

According to Michelle, importers across the country are feeling the pressure as tariffs add anywhere from 10% to as much as 38% to certain product categories. These added costs don’t stay at the border—they move through the supply chain and ultimately land with businesses and consumers alike.

December 16, 2025

KCBS Radio

San Francisco

Reporter: Cathy Whitman

Which Products Are Most Affected?

Michelle highlighted several categories that are seeing especially sharp increases, including electronics, clothing, shoes, and toys. Footwear vendors, in particular, are struggling to maintain margins, as higher import costs make it difficult to price products at levels consumers can afford.

Toys are also heavily impacted, with any toy imported from China subject to increased tariffs—and even toys from Europe now facing tariffs around 15%.

Why China Matters So Much

Most toys, electronics, and holiday decorations sold in the United States are manufactured in China. That concentration means tariff changes disproportionately affect seasonal goods. While some larger companies may be able to adjust by shifting suppliers or sourcing components from different countries, many small and mid-sized importers lack the flexibility to make those changes quickly.

What This Means for Businesses and Consumers

The result is a squeeze felt on both sides of the counter: businesses absorb what costs they can, and consumers pay more—or buy less. As Michelle noted, tariffs are no longer a narrow trade issue; they are shaping purchasing behavior and business strategy nationwide.

Understanding how tariffs apply to your products is essential for managing risk and staying competitive.

Schulz Trade Law works with importers to navigate complex trade regulations and identify compliant strategies to mitigate tariff exposure.

If rising import costs impact your business, contact Schulz Trade Consulting to learn how we can help you plan ahead.

Tariff Refund Lawsuits, Supreme Court Uncertainty, and What Importers Should Do Now

Michelle Schulz explains the latest tariff litigation and why timing matters for billions in potential refunds.

In a recent interview on KXYL Radio in Brownwood–Coleman, Texas, Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law, unpacked a rapidly developing legal battle over U.S. tariffs. With major retailers seeking to preserve their rights to refunds—and courts signaling potential skepticism toward the legality of sweeping tariffs—importers are facing both risk and opportunity.

Michelle broke down what the recent court rulings mean, why refunds may still be possible, and how companies should prepare now.

December 18, 2025

KXYL Radio

Brownwood/Coleman, Texas

Hosts: Celinda Hawkins and J.R. Williams

Why Companies Sued Over Tariffs—and Why the Court Said No

Michelle explained that a group of major importers recently filed suit in the U.S. Court of International Trade, asking for an injunction to stop U.S. Customs from finalizing tariff calculations—a process known as liquidation. Their goal was simple: preserve the ability to receive refunds quickly if the tariffs are later ruled unlawful.

The court denied that request. While companies can still pursue refunds, the ruling means Customs will continue finalizing duties, forcing importers into a longer, more complex refund process if the tariffs are overturned.

“Not even close—this would be massive compared to prior tariff actions, because it applies to virtually any product and almost any country.” 

Supreme Court Review and the $130 Billion Question

According to Michelle, the stakes are enormous. A recent Department of Justice filing indicated that roughly $130 billion in tariffs has already been collected. If the Supreme Court of the United States ultimately finds the tariffs unlawful—as some legal observers expect—importers will need to file formal protests and refund requests after the fact.

That process can take months or even years. Michelle noted that while the lawsuits aimed to speed things up, their denial may actually slow the return of funds across the board.

“If the Supreme Court decides that these tariffs are unlawful, importers who have paid billions altogether in tariffs are going to have to go back through an entire process to protest and request refunds.” 

What Importers Can Do Right Now

Despite the uncertainty, Michelle emphasized that businesses are not powerless. Her firm is actively reviewing how clients classify and value their imports—areas where technical errors can quietly cost companies millions. In one case, correcting valuation methodology alone resulted in substantial duty savings.

Whether or not the tariffs are struck down, careful compliance, proper valuation, and strategic planning can significantly reduce exposure and improve cash flow.

Tariff uncertainty isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a financial one.

If your company imports goods and is concerned about overpaid duties, delayed refunds, or compliance risk, now is the time to act. Schulz Trade Consulting helps importers prepare for refunds, reduce tariff exposure, and navigate complex trade regulations with confidence.

Tariffs, Toys, and the Real Cost to Consumers

Why Your Holiday Shopping Costs More: Michelle Schulz on Tariffs and Trade Policy

Trade attorney Michelle Schulz, founder of Schulz Trade Law, explains how tariffs are quietly reshaping prices on everything from toys to electronics.

December 16, 2025

Wisconsin’s Afternoon News

WTMJ Radio, Milwaukee

Host: Julia Fello

Why Holiday Gifts Are Getting More Expensive

Michelle explained that tariffs are significantly increasing the cost of commonly imported goods, including toys, electronics, clothing, furniture, and household items. Many products are now subject to a baseline tariff of at least 10%, with additional duties layered on depending on the product category. For example, clothing prices are up roughly 20% on average, while toys have seen increases closer to 17%—costs that ultimately land on consumers’ checkout receipts.

Why China Remains at the Center of the Tariff Conversation

The interview highlighted that the vast majority of toys and holiday decorations are still manufactured in China. While some higher tariffs have been temporarily paused, numerous others—such as steel and aluminum tariffs—remain in effect. According to Michelle, this “across-the-board” approach is far more impactful than the more targeted measures seen during earlier trade disputes, intensifying pressure on companies that rely on Chinese manufacturing and deepening trade tensions overall.

“Anything from China or any other country is going to have at least a 10% baseline tariff, and then you add others on top of that.”

Are Any Industries Spared? Not Really.

While no sector is truly immune, Michelle noted that some large pharmaceutical companies have managed to reduce tariff exposure by investing in U.S.-based manufacturing. These strategic moves can sometimes influence trade outcomes—but smaller companies often lack the capital to pivot in the same way. As a result, tariffs disproportionately affect small and mid-sized businesses, increasing costs and, in some cases, threatening their long-term viability.

“It has been vastly more impactful on companies, and all the way down to the consumer.”

Tariffs are not just a policy issue—they are a business reality.

If your company imports goods, sources materials globally, or is facing rising costs tied to trade regulations, Schulz Trade Consulting can help you understand your exposure and identify compliant strategies to reduce risk. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your bottom line.