Smart tariffs fight Beijing, stupid tariffs tax Santa: How Trump can save Christmas

Published September 19, 2026 10:00am ET



President Donald Trump can deliver a timely economic win before the holiday shopping season by using the new U.S.-China Board of Trade to reduce tariffs on everyday consumer goods.

Tariffs on imports from China have been defended as leverage against unfair trade practices and a tool to protect strategic industries. But not every product imported from China is strategic. Toys, children’s clothing, sneakers, headphones, phone chargers, small appliances, and household basics are not military equipment or advanced technology platforms. They are products American families buy for birthdays, back-to-school, home offices, and holidays.

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