Will This Change Impact Lolitas in The United States of America?
Recently, the current presidential administration imposed additional tariffs on the country of China. The tariff will cause a ten percent increase on selected Chinese goods. The list of over 28 pages of items, affects everything from food to raw materials. Unfortunately, there are a few items that may affect lolitas living in the United States of America. Overall, there will be $200 billion worth of items that qualify.
What does this mean for me and other American Lolitas moving forward?
Taobao and other Chinese marketplaces give buyers access to inexpensive and independent products. These include, but are not limited to, loliable and lolita niche products. Many independent goods produced by Chinese brands allow for Lolitas to save funds on clothes, accessories, and shoes. Not only do we save money, but the additional product designs allow for more diverse lolita coordinates. The more of a selection, the better.
You can view the update to this article here!
©photo by Whale Fall
Which Items Apply?
In this recent change, there will be a 10% tariff on handbags, backpacks, make-up and human hair. These particular selected goods appear to be the only possible lolita related products at this time.
When Will This Happen?
According to CNN's recent sources, the change will take place, "sometime after August 30, 2018."
What Does This Mean for Me as a Consumer?
There will be an increase to items within this tariff that you purchase. These include household items and products that are used for our niche fashion. Here an example of an item that I plan to purchase.
©photo by Whale Fall
The last paragraph of the star bag:
“All prices have been rounded to the nearest dollar.
The prices do not reflect shipping costs.
Original Price: $24.00
Shopping Service Fee: $2.00
Tariff Fee: $3.00
= $29.00
As you can see, this price increase will create additional costs per item and impact large orders, too.
©photo by Whale Fall
My Thoughts
While I agree with the current administration's position and distaste for copyright infringement, I am confused as to why this tariff effects so many items. I fail to see how potassium and other raw materials are copyrightable. Additionally, the fact that these fees still apply to originally designed bags, make-up, and wigs confuses me. Independent and creative designed products should not be held accountable to this tariff if the intention is only to prevent copyright infringement.
As a plus-size lolita, I rely on overseas brands for many of my lolita pieces. The added service of custom sizing is crucial to my current and future success in this fashion. I also love that Taobao allows me to discover and purchase from smaller brands. The ability to by off-brand clothes and accessories allows for me to support the large lolita name-brands with big ticket item purchases.
While this change will not appear to be more than a minor inconvenience at this time, I wonder how long it will take until there is a tariff on other lolita essentials. I hope the tariff does not expand.
©photo by Whale Fall
How do you feel about these new tariffs? Are you located in the United States? Will these new fees influence your purchase decisions? I would love to hear your opinions and have a discussion!