How tariffs could impact the availability of baby products

npr.orgPublished: 4/17/2025

Summary

Tariffs have significantly impacted Munchkin, a major manufacturer of baby products, leading it to halt orders, cut jobs, and potentially stop delivering essential items nationwide. Founder Steve Dunn warns that these tariffs could make parenting more expensive and exacerbate low birth rates. The tariffs currently stand at 145%, making it impossible for Munchkin and other small businesses to absorb the costs without severely impacting consumers. Munchkin has stopped ordering products from China due to the high tariffs, with inventory expected to run out in the next 60-90 days. Dunn emphasizes that relocating production to the U.S. would take years and significant government support, as essential machinery and skilled labor are not readily available.