U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is sounding the alarm over President Donald Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese imports, which she says will cause the cost of baby products to spike and place a heavy burden on American families.
In a virtual press conference on May 8, Gillibrand criticized the administration’s decision to impose a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, citing concerns that the move will sharply increase the cost of essential baby items—including strollers, car seats, and cribs.
Families face rising costs for essential baby gear
According to industry data cited by Gillibrand, China supplies the vast majority of baby safety products sold in the U.S.:
- 98% of car seats
- 97% of strollers
- 94% of bassinets and playpens
- 92% of highchairs
- 89% of bottle warmers and sterilizers
- 46% of cribs
“American families will pay the price for President Trump’s chaotic and reckless tariff policies,” Gillibrand said. “Prices are already climbing, and this ‘baby tax’ is making safe baby gear unaffordable for many households.”
Tariffs already impacting supply chains and prices
Industry reports show that companies like UPPAbaby, Cybex, and Valco have started raising prices on baby essentials, with average increases hovering around 30%. Some brands have frozen shipments from China altogether, fearing higher costs and increased uncertainty.
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association estimates that over 70% of baby gear sold in the U.S. is manufactured in China.
Experts worry about safety trade-offs
Gillibrand and child safety advocates warn that rising costs may push parents to buy second-hand or outdated gear that doesn’t meet modern safety standards.
“This will force families to rely on older or recalled products, or to delay replacing expired car seats and cribs—decisions that could put infants at risk,” she said.
Gillibrand calls for immediate exemption
In a formal letter to administration officials, Gillibrand demanded that baby safety products be exempt from the new tariffs. She argued that with existing supply chain constraints, U.S. manufacturers currently lack the capacity to replace Chinese imports for many essential items.
“Parents should not be forced to choose between safety and making ends meet,” the letter states. “The administration must act now to exempt critical baby gear from these tariffs.”
What happens next
Unless the administration reverses course, consumers should expect continued price hikes on essential baby items throughout the coming months. Advocacy groups and lawmakers are expected to intensify calls for exemptions, especially as the 2025 election cycle heats up.
For families preparing for a new child, Gillibrand’s message is clear: Be aware of coming price increases, and urge federal officials to protect access to affordable baby safety products.
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