Tariff Delays on Televisions: What They Mean for Pricing and Why You Should Buy Now

Tariff Delays on Televisions: What They Mean for Pricing and Why You Should Buy Now

If you’ve been shopping for a new TV, you may have noticed that prices on some models remain surprisingly low. That’s no coincidence. The U.S. government has put a temporary pause on certain tariffs that were previously set to impact flat-panel TVs imported from China. But this delay won’t last forever—and when it ends, TV prices may spike, especially for models made by Chinese manufacturers.

Here’s what you need to know about the tariff pause, how it affects pricing across different brands, and why now might be the best time to buy a new TV.

How Tariffs Affect TV Prices

In recent years, the U.S. has imposed a series of tariffs on Chinese imports, including electronics and display panels. These tariffs—essentially a tax on goods coming from China—can range from 7.5% to 25% and are usually passed down the chain from manufacturers to consumers.

When tariffs are in effect:

• Manufacturers pay more to bring products into the U.S.

• Retailers face tighter margins and higher wholesale costs

• Consumers often end up footing the bill through higher retail prices

But currently, these tariffs are paused or under review, giving TV brands and retailers a temporary window to keep prices low.

Chinese vs. Korean and Japanese TV Brands: Who’s Affected?

Chinese Manufacturers (Higher Risk if Tariffs Resume):

• Hisense

• TCL

• Vizio (though technically an American company, most of its TVs are assembled in China)

These brands rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing facilities and supply chains. Once tariffs are reinstated, they may face significant cost increases, likely resulting in:

• Price hikes of 10–25% or more

• Reduced availability of budget and mid-range models

• Less competitive pricing compared to non-Chinese brands

Korean and Japanese Manufacturers (More Insulated):

• Samsung (South Korea, with large assembly operations in Mexico and Vietnam)

• LG (South Korea, also assembling many TVs in Mexico)

• Sony (Japan, with some production shifted out of China)

These brands have diversified manufacturing and are less exposed to China-specific tariffs. That means their pricing is more stable, and any future price increases are likely to be smaller and more gradual.

What Happens When the Tariff Pause Ends?

The current tariff suspension is just that—temporary. If it expires or is reversed due to policy shifts or trade tensions, Chinese-made TVs will once again be subject to import taxes. Retailers and manufacturers will have to adjust quickly, and price increases could hit shelves within weeks of a decision.

Depending on the size and scope of the resumed tariffs:

• Entry-level 55" TVs that cost $399 today might jump to $449 or more

• Larger models (65"+) could see increases of $100–$300

• The biggest impact will be on value-focused brands like Hisense and TCL, which have fewer ways to absorb the added cost

Why You Should Consider Buying Now

There’s a strong case for acting sooner rather than later:

• Prices are near historic lows thanks to competitive pressure and the tariff pause

• Inventory is strong, with a wide selection of sizes and models in stock

• Retail promotions are common in spring and early summer, making it easier to find deals

• If tariffs resume, supply chain adjustments will lag, and prices could rise quickly without much warning

Even if you're planning to upgrade later this year, buying now helps hedge against the uncertainty of future pricing—especially if you're considering a TV from a Chinese brand.

Bottom Line

Tariff delays are giving consumers a unique opportunity to buy high-quality TVs at low prices—but this window won’t stay open forever. If you're in the market for a new television, especially one from Hisense, TCL, or Vizio, it may be wise to act now before potential tariff increases drive prices up.

Looking for a new TV? At The Big Screen Store, we carry top-rated models from Samsung with guaranteed low prices and expert installation. Visit us today or shop online to find your perfect screen while prices are still low.