Ohioans planning to celebrate holidays with fireworks could face significantly higher costs this year and next, industry leaders caution, following the implementation of new tariffs on goods imported from China.

The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) and the National Fireworks Association (NFA) issued an urgent appeal to President Donald Trump in an April 3 letter, a copy of which was obtained by 21 News, urging him to lift the tariffs. The groups contend that the increased costs will cripple small businesses and dampen patriotic celebrations, including the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.

According to the letter, the fireworks industry now faces a total tariff rate of 54% on Chinese imports, a substantial increase following previous tariffs. The industry had hoped for an exemption, like the one granted in 2019.

"The now total +54% (10%+10%+34%) tariff rates on China will seriously cripple our hyperseasonal industry," stated the letter, jointly signed by Michael Ingram, President of the American Pyrotechnics Association, and Stacy Schneitter-Blake, President of the National Fireworks Association.

The fireworks industry is heavily reliant on China, with approximately 99% of consumer fireworks and 75% of display fireworks imported from the country. The APA and NFA emphasize that there are virtually no domestic alternatives for production due to a lack of raw materials, higher labor costs, and strict regulations in the U.S.

"Tariffs will not incentivize U.S. production—they will only increase costs," the letter argued. "The reality is that there are no manufacturing alternatives available outside of China."

The industry groups highlight three critical reasons for the tariffs to be lifted:

Semiquincentennial Celebrations and Economic Growth:

Fireworks have been a key part of Independence Day celebrations for nearly 250 years. The industry argues that the increased costs will jeopardize events planned for the 2026 Semiquincentennial.

Hyper-Seasonal Industry with No Domestic Alternative:

The narrow import window in the first five months of the year means the new tariffs will directly impact fireworks available for this year's Fourth of July and next year's celebrations. The groups stress that the tariffs will harm American businesses and consumers, not China.

Severe Budget Impacts on Local Governments and Community Events:

Many local governments and non-profit organizations, such as scout troops and veterans' groups, rely on affordable fireworks for public displays and fundraising. The increased costs could lead to the cancellation or reduction of these events.

"City and local governments budget for professional fireworks displays months in advance, locking in fixed prices long before the current 20% tariffs took effect," the letter explained. "With the additional 34%, fireworks will become too expensive, and we will see organizations cut back or eliminate events that unify communities and bring Americans together."

Ohioans are legally permitted to discharge consumer fireworks on certain holidays and weekends throughout the year, provided their local municipality does not have stricter regulations. These dates include New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day weekend, Juneteenth, dates surrounding the Fourth of July, Labor Day weekend, Diwali, and New Year’s Eve.

The APA and NFA warn that the increased cost of fireworks due to the tariffs could make celebrations less accessible for many families and communities.

The industry associations are urging President Trump to reconsider the tariffs to protect American jobs, small family-owned businesses, and the tradition of celebrating holidays with fireworks. They argue that the 2019 exemption recognized the unique nature of the industry and that a similar action is needed now to prevent significant negative impacts.

Headquartered in Youngstown, Phantom Fireworks states on its website that it is the country’s number one fireworks retailer.

Phantom has 80 showrooms in 15 states open year-round and nearly 2,000 temporary locations in 17 states.