The holidays are here, and for many Americans, that means the annual debate over which centerpiece will anchor their festive décor: the convenience of an artificial tree or the charm and classic scent of a fresh-cut fir. This year, however, a surprise player is stepping into the ring: international trade tariffs, which are quietly tilting the scale in favor of the real deal.
If you’re one of the millions of households that opts for a faux evergreen, get ready for a little sticker shock. The cost of imported plastic Christmas trees is up, a direct result of ongoing tariffs, primarily impacting goods manufactured in Asia. The vast majority of artificial trees sold in the US, roughly 90%, are imported from China.
Industry executives and trade groups are now warning shoppers to brace for price hikes this season. While initial tariff threats were alarmingly high, the resulting pressure has translated to an estimated 10 to 20 percent increase in the retail price of an artificial tree. One major artificial tree company, Balsam Hill, has stated it was forced to raise its prices by about 20 percent. These levies apply not just to the trees themselves, but also to many other imported holiday decorations. In fact, some importers predict the price of Christmas lights could jump by as much as 63 percent this year.
Beyond the cost, shoppers may also notice a difference in selection. Due to the months of uncertainty and the rising cost of importing goods, some retailers have reportedly cut back on their holiday orders, leading to a tighter supply on shelves. One CEO in the industry projected that the market would see about 15 percent fewer artificial trees this season.
The good news for holiday traditionalists? Your beloved fresh-cut tree remains largely untouched by this international trade skirmish. Since real Christmas trees are mostly grown on US farms or imported tariff-free from Canada, they do not face the same import duties as their plastic counterparts.
This reality is making the choice a little easier for budget-conscious families. While all consumer goods are subject to general inflationary pressures, the price of a real tree is proving to be more stable this year. Some local growers are managing to keep their prices similar to last year, making a real tree a relatively more economical option compared to a suddenly pricier, pre-lit plastic one.
For those debating between a one-time purchase that lasts for years and a fresh-cut tree, the rising cost of artificial versions is a compelling new factor. This holiday season, skipping the store-bought aisle and heading to a local tree farm or pop-up lot might just be the most financially savvy way to bring the holiday spirit home. It’s a classic choice that’s suddenly looking like the real bargain.
