Impacts of Recent U.S. Tariff Announcements on Musical Instruments

Impacts of U.S. Tariffs Announced April 2, 2025

Note & Disclaimer: This article does not reflect any political stance by Jordan Winds Music Company, LLC or its affiliates. Information following the recent U.S. tariff announcement on April 2, 2025, is currently limited. This article includes speculation and does not claim to predict future economic outcomes or effects.

Introduction

In a statement from NAMM CEO John Mlynczak:“Music is a powerful unifying force across the world. Music brings us together, it heals, and it empowers. It is essential that music-making continues to unite us globally, without any punitive measures or restrictions to the trade and manufacturing of musical products.”

Music stores across the United States are closely monitoring the 2025 tariff announcements. The most recent announcement, made on April 2, has raised significant concerns about its potential effects on the musical instrument industry. Flutes and other band instruments—apart from many top-of-the-line, handmade models—are largely manufactured in Asian countries most affected by the recent tariff increases.

When it comes to flutes, nearly all beginner, intermediate, and pre-professional models are produced outside the United States. Many of the world’s top professional flutes are also manufactured internationally, including brands such as Haynes Q Series, Miyazawa, Muramatsu, Yamaha, and others. Countries most commonly associated with flute manufacturing include Japan, China, Taiwan, Indonesia, and, more recently, Canada.

What Are Tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes paid by importers (U.S. companies purchasing inventory from abroad). They are often referred to as duties or import taxes. In theory, tariffs are designed to encourage domestic manufacturing and trade, but they often end up impacting the end consumer.

These added costs are usually absorbed by importers (U.S. retailers) and passed along to buyers—either partially or fully—in the form of price increases.

Impact on the Music Industry

NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) CEO John Mlynczak expressed concerns that new tariffs will raise the cost of musical instruments—many of which are imported or made with imported parts—negatively impacting both manufacturers and retailers.(Source: Synthtopia.com)

Tariffs hit hardest on high-ticket items like musical instruments, especially in an industry where profit margins are relatively slim. In other words, music retailers often cannot absorb the additional cost of tariffs and are likely to pass them on to consumers through higher prices.

We estimate that prices may increase by as much as 10%–25% (or more) as a result of these new tariffs.

The music industry is still feeling the ripple effects of the COVID-19 crisis, including ongoing supply chain disruptions and cost increases. Shortages of parts, instruments, and pads continue, and prices have already risen 10%–25% in recent years. Our concern is that these new tariffs will further exacerbate these issues.

Impact on Jordan Winds Music Company

At Jordan Winds, we specialize in selling high-quality pre-owned, refurbished, and demo model flutes and piccolos. However, if new instrument prices rise, we anticipate a corresponding increase in the prices of pre-owned inventory as well. Pre-owned instruments are generally priced in relation to new instrument prices.

We also tend to experience increased demand during times of economic uncertainty, which can further limit our inventory.

When Should You Buy?

We always say you’re the best person to decide when to buy! However, with the potential economic impact of these new tariffs, many of our customers are choosing to make their purchases sooner rather than later to lock in current pricing.

Since tariffs and other economic factors can change frequently, we encourage all customers to make well-informed decisions based on their individual needs and circumstances.