Tariffs Threaten Over 1000 US Printing Companies

Tariffs Threaten Over 1000 US Printing Companies

More than 1,000 US printing companies could be forced to shut down by 2030 as a result of tariff impacts, according to new research from Smithers.

The global authority on the printing industry has released a white paper titled Impact of Tariffs on Printing, warning that tariffs could drive an additional 6.4% decline in the US printing market over the next five years, potentially eliminating over 1,000 businesses.

According to the report, US printing consumption is estimated to fluctuate between $78.6 billion and $84.7 billion. Depending on the specific tariff policies by then, the difference could be greater, shaking up the entire global printing industry with potential impact of up to tens of billions of dollars.

Globally, printing demand is forecast to reach $355.2 billion by 2030. but could also decline by up to 3.1% under a pessimistic scenario. Key findings from Smithers’ research include:

• Steep declines in commercial print and book printing due to discretionary spending cuts and import reliance.
• Steady growth in packaging-related print amid pressures, driven by e-commerce expansion and the food sector.
• Increased costs for US-manufactured paper and inks, as imported raw materials remain critical and domestic capacity is insufficient in the short term.
• Impact on exports of used sheetfed offset hardware, much of which goes to India and China where tariffs remain high.
• Potential reshoring and regional hub development as printers and suppliers seek to reduce tariff risks.

Brands adopting a “Plus One” strategy, diversifying sourcing beyond China into Southeast Asia and Latin America to mitigate future trade risks.

Smithers built three scenarios—baseline, pessimistic, and optimistic—using primary and secondary research combined with its proprietary database, underpinned by economic data from the IMF and USITC. The analysis assessed potential impacts across key printing markets, processes, and geographies, with each stage reviewed by Smithers’ print and packaging experts.

Related:

• Entry-Level 3D Printer Shipments Surge on Tariff Fears
• EU Commission Reveals Gaps in E-Waste Directive
• 3D Printing Market Expected to Quadruple in Years
• Digital Printing Thrives in US & Western Europe
• Ink Tank Models Drive Printer Shipment Growth in Q1

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