Tariffs
With President Trump keeping tariffs front and centre of the news headlines, it might seem like finding low-tariff goods to import to the US is becoming harder and harder.
The global economy is shifting in the current climate and increases in tariffs in the United States will certainly impact pricing for American consumers and the US economy as a whole.
The global economy could be breaking apart as the US increases tariffs on imported goods from Canada, Mexico, China, the European Union and other countries, and those other countries in turn counter Trump’s tariffs. US policies will play a crucial role in shaping import strategies for the coming years.
Savvy importers must look for high demand products that are both profitable and come with minimal import duties and of course are low risk. In 2026, this is more important than ever, as tariffs on certain goods—especially from China—remain high. However, by selecting the right products and sourcing from strategic locations, you can build a strong product range while keeping costs manageable.
With that said, let’s explore a handful of ideas for products that could hold good profits but low tariffs. Hope this gives you some inspiration.
Top Products to Import From the US:
- Eco-Friendly Kitchenware
- Pet Accessories & Grooming Products
- Car Accessories & Organization Gadgets
- DIY & Home Repair Tools
- Smart Travel Accessories
- Personalized Stationery & Office Supplies
- Outdoor & Camping Gear
ABTS® has no affiliation with any of the following suggested products and advises all readers to carry out their own research.
Understanding US Imports and International Trade
Profitable Product Ranges with Low Tariffs: Essential Imports
Here are seven product categories that could offer profitability, scalability, and low tariff rates when imported from the right countries. These categories are among the top imports in the United States, significantly contributing to the market with a variety of food items and general merchandise.
1. Eco-Friendly Kitchenware
There’s no doubt that we as consumers are all more environmentally conscious these days and we should all be trying to use less single use plastic articles, which is leading to an obvious increase in consumer demand for sustainable and reusable products.
Eco-friendly kitchenware is a promising category for importers and offers a diverse range of products with equally eco-friendly packaging materials. Households are shifting toward bamboo, silicone, and stainless steel alternatives in order to reduce plastic waste.
This trend is not only driven by environmental concerns but also by the rise of health-conscious consumers looking for safer, non-toxic kitchen materials and use of organic chemicals. By developing a product range that based on these ideas, importers can tap into a market that continues to expand while benefiting from relatively low import tariffs on these goods.
Import statistics for eco‑friendly bamboo products in the U.S. show continued strong growth into 2025, reflecting rising consumer interest in sustainable kitchenware and home goods.
Between June 2024 and May 2025, the United States imported an estimated 23,531 shipments of bamboo products, representing roughly 28 % growth year‑on‑year compared to the prior period — a clear expansion from the ~2,917 shipments recorded between March 2023 and February 2024, and underscoring the accelerating demand for eco‑friendly bamboo items like kitchenware, tableware and utensils. The U.S. remains the world’s largest importer of bamboo products overall, with imports supplied by dozens of exporting countries, driven by trends toward biodegradable and renewable materials in everyday consumer goods.
- Profit Margins (Estimated): 20-30%. Sustainability is a growing trend, and consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly alternatives. It’s worth consider importing:
- Bamboo cutting boards
- Reusable silicone food storage bags
- Stainless steel straws
- Compostable dish sponges
Most goods like this are typically tariff-friendly, especially when sourced and exported from countries like Vietnam or India instead of China.
2. Pet Accessories & Grooming Products
People love their pets like they love their family! The pet industry in the U.S. continues to thrive, with pet owners willing to spend more on high-quality accessories and grooming products than ever before.
We now have doggy day care, doggy hotels and I’ve even heard of doggy day spas!
Consumers are looking for innovative, safe, and durable products which if you take on the eco-friendly view as well and can replace plastic items with silicone, this could land you some top imports. With pet ownership on the rise and a shift towards eco-friendly and premium pet goods, importing pet accessories offers a lucrative opportunity.
Since many pet-related products fall under low-tariff categories, sourcing from the right countries can further boost profitability.
- Import and overall sales figures for the U.S. pet industry continued to strengthen into 2025, reflecting steady growth in consumer demand for pet products and imported goods. While in 2024 the industry was projected to reach US $150.6 billion in total sales, in 2025 total U.S. pet industry expenditures are expected to climb to around US $157 billion, a clear continuation of the long‑term upward trend in spending on pet food, supplies, and care products.
- Profit Margins (Estimated): 25-35%. The pet industry continues to grow, import data showing that owners are happy to spend on high quality accessories and grooming tools. Some lucrative products could include:
- Silicone slow feeder bowls
- Pet grooming/massaging gloves
- Collapsible travel bowls
- Biodegradable pet waste bags
Tariffs on pet accessories are generally low, particularly when sourced outside of China. Vietnam and Thailand are good alternatives.
3. Car Accessories & Organization Gadgets
Boys and their toys! This market is always strong as guys…and girls, work on powering vehicles to make them cooler, sexier, louder, more comfortable etc etc. This category includes items from phone holders and cool storage solutions to high-tech gadgets like dash cams and heads-up-displays.
Consumers are always to invest in cool gear that gives them a better drive, or impresses those that they want to impress! Data shows the demand for car accessories has increased, perhaps due to rideshare services now available and the fact that people can drive their vehicles as a side-hustle and earn extra cash, rather than it just being the job of a taxi driver, as it once was.
Most goods are available at competitive costs overseas so importing car gadgets can be a smart business move with solid profit margins.
- In 2025, the United States continues to be one of the world’s largest markets for imported automotive parts, with total import value holding strong near US $197 billion in 2024 and extending robust trade into 2025 as supply chains adjust to evolving global dynamics.
While Mexico, Canada and China remain key suppliers — with Mexico alone accounting for a substantial share of automotive components — emerging sources such as Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam are expanding their roles in U.S. auto parts imports, supporting diversification and resilience in the sector.
Despite policy shifts and tariff considerations that may alter sourcing patterns, the broad base of global suppliers and continued demand for high‑quality components underpin the industry’s growth potential and its integral role in supporting U.S. manufacturing and consumer markets. - Profit Margins (Estimated): 15-25%. Vehicle owners are always looking for convenient, stylish, and functional accessories. Some trending products include:
- Car seat gap organizers
- Wireless car chargers
- HUD Displays
- Dash Cameras
- Magnetic phone mounts
Sourcing from Taiwan or South Korea can help reduce import costs while ensuring good quality products.
4. DIY & Home Repair Tools
We’ve all dabbled in some sort of home improvement or DIY projects at some point. Some with better results than others needless to say but DIY has surged in popularity, fueled by a growing trend of homeowners opting for self-repairs and renovations perhaps due to the cost of living these days.
From DIY heating insulation and heating homes to self contained air conditioners, do it yourself shelving, we all need home improvements which has created a strong demand for compact, affordable, and easy-to-use tools.
Importing home repair tools for various needs can be a profitable venture, especially when sourcing from countries with low production costs and minimal tariffs but these tools must be good quality!
Consumers won’t accept cheap rubbish that breaks on the second use, you could end up with a real problem if you don’t do your quality checks.
- Import statistics for the DIY and home repair segment show continued strength into 2025, building on solid growth in early 2025 as U.S. demand for hand tools and related products remained high.
After U.S. imports of hand tools — a category that includes hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and similar items — were rising in early 2025, total import values for the broader hand tools category were estimated at about US $475 million in 2024, reflecting strong sustained demand for foreign‑made tools used by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. - Profit Margins (Estimated): 20-30% DIY culture continues to thrive, making home repair tools a solid import choice. Consider:
- Magnetic wristbands for holding screws/nails
- Mini electric screwdrivers with flashlight
- Anti-slip furniture pads
- Cordless glue guns
Many hand tools and accessories in this category attract minimal tariffs, especially when sourced from India or Malaysia.
5. Smart Travel Accessories
After a couple of years stuck at home, travelers are travelling again and want to buy their travel accessories making travel easier, more secure, and more organised. Compact and multi-functional travel products, such as RFID-blocking wallets and space-saving packing cubes, are now travel essentials.
The travel accessories market benefits from repeat buying, seasonal demand, and growing interest in smart, tech-enabled solutions such as baggage trackers to help find your bags when the airline looses them!
With low tariffs and reasonable prices on many travel-related goods, importing these accessories can be a profitable and scalable business.
- Import data for travel accessories and related travel goods show continued momentum into 2025, building on a strong recovery of travel activity after the pandemic. U.S. imports of travel goods (which include luggage, bags, and accessories) have climbed in recent years, reaching about $909 million in early 2024, near historic highs as more consumers hit the road for leisure and business travel.
This reflects rising demand for travel‑friendly products such as smart luggage, packing organizers, and multifunctional accessories, a trend supported by robust growth in overall travel spending and tourism activity.
With global travel and tourism continuing to rebound and projected to grow further, imports of travel accessories into the U.S. are expected to strengthen through 2025, helping retailers and brands capitalize on evolving traveler preferences for convenience, comfort and innovation. - Profit Margins (Estimated): 25-35%. With global travel rebounding, smart and compact travel accessories are in demand. Great options include:
- Compression packing cubes
- RFID-blocking passport wallets
- Travel-size toiletry bottles (Silicon opposed to plastic items)
- Universal smart travel adapters
Exporting from Vietnam or Indonesia can help keep costs competitive.
6. Personalized Stationery & Office Supplies: Popular Consumer Goods
With the rise of remote work, hybrid offices and digital nomads, demand for stylish and functional stationery has increased. Personalised office supplies, such as reusable notebooks and ergonomic or stand-up desks and accessories, are trending among both professionals and students.
Importing these products provides an opportunity to cater to a wide customer base (students and professionals), from corporate offices to home-based businesses.
Many stationery and office supplies come with low tariffs, making them an attractive category for importers looking to build a profitable product range.
- Import activity for stationery items into the United States continued its steady upward trajectory into 2025, reflecting sustained demand for writing, office and school supplies among consumers and businesses. After approximately 289,000 tons of stationery were imported in 2024, up about 8.2 % from the year before, imports are expected to remain on a growth path as global trade flows and the shift toward outsourcing continue to support robust import volumes.
The U.S. remains the world’s largest importer of stationery by tonnage, and top suppliers such as China, Vietnam and India are key partners in meeting this demand. With forecast models suggesting modest ongoing expansion in import volumes through 2025 and beyond, this segment highlights the resilience of international supply networks in servicing the U.S. stationery market. - Profit Margins (Estimated): 15-25%. With the rise of remote work and digital note-taking, stylish and functional office accessories are great sellers. Try:
- Reusable smart notebooks
- Desk organizers with wireless charging
- Ergonomic laptop stands
- Digital planners
Countries like Taiwan and Turkey offer high-quality, low-tariff alternatives to China.
7. Outdoor & Camping Gear
The great outdoors in the US, from the Rockies to Yellowstone to the Redwoods. Hiking and camping is a solid market with demand for lightweight equipment, portable, and durable gear always high.
Consumers are always looking for high-quality yet affordable equipment for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures.
Importing camping gear presents a strong business opportunity, especially when sourcing from manufacturers in countries with low tariff rates. Offering a product range of high quality materials, whilst staying competitive with pricing can help importers tap into this expanding market.
- The global camping equipment market continues to show strong growth into 2025, fueled by rising interest in outdoor recreation, eco‑tourism, and adventure travel. Following recovery trends post‑pandemic, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7 % from 2025 to 2033, potentially reaching US $87.71 billion by 2033. Increased demand spans tents, portable cooking gear, backpacks, and outdoor accessories, with both North America and Europe leading in per‑capita spending while emerging markets in Asia-Pacific are showing accelerated adoption.
This sustained growth highlights the expanding global appetite for camping and outdoor lifestyle products, presenting strong opportunities for manufacturers, retailers, and importers worldwide. - Profit Margins (Estimated): 20-30% Outdoor activities continue to surge in popularity. Profitable imports include:
- Portable hammock sets
- Solar-powered camping lanterns
- Foldable camping tables
- Compact picnic blankets
Sourcing from Taiwan, Vietnam, or India opposed to China can help you maintain lower import duties.
Market Trends and Demand Analysis
Understanding market trends and analysing import data are critical for understanding US imports and wider global trade. The US economy is the biggest in the world, driven by consumer demand, but this doesn’t mean automatic sales, businesses must stay on top of changing trends and prices to remain competitive.
The demand for consumer goods, such as electronics, clothing, and furniture, is a significant driver of US imports. The country’s large and diverse population creates a vast market for all these goods, with many consumers seeking high-quality products at competitive prices but you must do your market research.
It’s worth noting that consumer goods are a massive part of the US economy, the US also imports significant quantities of industrial supplies and materials, including crude oil, natural gas, and precious metals.
These imports are essential for supporting the country’s manufacturing sector where many products are made and sold in the US, powering its domestic and overall economy.
Finding Reliable Suppliers in Foreign Countries for International Trade
Have some ideas? When sourcing products, it’s crucial to find reputable suppliers who offer quality goods at competitive prices and make sure you avoid being scammed. This is especially important when importing goods, as understanding the supplier’s supply chain process can help ensure a good fit for your business requirements. Here’s how to get started:
- Use B2B Platforms – Websites like Alibaba, Global Sources, and IndiaMart allow you to connect with vetted suppliers.
- Attend Trade Shows – Events like the Canton Fair (China), Sourcing at Magic (USA), and Vietnam Expo can help you meet suppliers directly.
- Request Samples – Before committing to a bulk order, always order samples to assess product quality.
- Verify Certifications – Ensure suppliers have the necessary compliance certifications for US regulations, especially for electronics, kitchenware, and children’s products.
What Importers Should Know Before Proceeding: Import Data Insights
Importing is not just about choosing the right product—it requires understanding regulations, tariffs, and logistics. Here are key points to consider:
- Understand Customs Duties & Tariffs – The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provides information on duty rates. Use it to estimate your costs.
- Check Import Regulations – Some products require FDA, EPA, or CPSC approval before they can be legally sold in the US.
- Shipping & Logistics – Compare sea freight vs. air freight costs and lead times to optimize your supply chain.
- Consider Warehousing & Fulfillment – If using Amazon FBA or third-party fulfillment centers, ensure smooth inventory management.
- Review Shipping Documents – Ensure that the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are in order. Proper documentation is essential for tracking shipments and ensuring a smooth shipping process.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right products, sourcing from low-tariff countries, and understanding import regulations can give your business a competitive edge in 2025. By focusing on profitable product ranges with growth potential and considering the total import value of these products, you can build a successful importing business while keeping costs under control.
The ABTS® International Trade Mastery Programme
Identifying products to sell is just one part of importing and exporting. Before you dive in and find suppliers and setup your new import export business, it’s very important to understand how to navigate the world of international trade.
The ABTS® International Trade Mastery Programme teaches you the practical knowledge you need to import export from the ground up, how to move your goods from A to B in a simple, clear and easy to understand way.
You’ll learn how to maximise your profits while reducing your risk.
To lean more, check out the ABTS® International Trade Mastery Programme.