Tariffs Synopsis Of The Latest China Tariff Announcement (5/15/25) & The Impact On Disposable Gloves
1. The China tariff has been revised from 125% to 30% for the next 90 days (see revised tariff chart below).
2. With the latest announcement, the cost increase on vinyl gloves imported from China will still exist. However, the rate of increase will not be as drastic as earlier projected.
Above all, this is an incredibly fluid situation and subject to change. We will do our best to continue to provide updates as the situation progresses.
Manufacturing Countries Affected by Tariffs
Approximately 90% of disposable examination gloves are imported to the United States from China and Southeast Asian Countries (SEA).
China: As of today, disposable gloves imported from China have the largest tariff increase at 145%. The greatest impact will be on vinyl gloves as nitrile examination glove manufacturing moved outside of China in late 2024/early 2025 due to previously announced tariffs.
SEA Countries: A 10% tariff has been recently confirmed on disposable gloves imported from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc. The 10% increase is valid even during the 90 day pause period.
On April 2nd, 2025, reciprocal tariffs were announced for multiple countries, including China and several Southeast Asian nations. A 90 day pause (ending July 9th) and rate modification was announced one week later resulting in a 10% tariff for many Southeast Asian countries. China’s tariff rate remained at 145% and was not included in the pause. It is currently uncertain what will happen after July 9th—whether the reciprocal tariff will be reinstated, if the 10% rate for Southeast Asian countries will stay in place, whether tariff rates will change, or what the future holds for tariffs with China.
Timing
The 90 day pause ends on July 9th; at this point we expect to see the effects start to trickle down the supply chain and make an impact within the coming months after the pause has ended.
Overall Impact
- Vinyl gloves (from China) will experience the largest cost increase. If the 145% tariff continues to hold in place – the cost of vinyl gloves (from China) will surpass the cost of nitrile and latex examination gloves.
- Vinyl glove manufacturers in other Southeast Asian countries are increasing production; however, their capacity remains limited and insufficient to meet the current demand, particularly for exam-grade gloves.
- Ocean Freight costs may increase due to disruption in shipping lanes
How is DASH positioned?
We are carefully monitoring the situation due to the considerable uncertainty about future developments. Our team is actively working to mitigate any potential impact on our customers.
Our supply chain is diverse and robust with healthy inventory levels. We are not heavily reliant on China for manufacturing. We will continue to provide high quality products with exceptional service that you have come to expect from DASH medical.