HIC Clear Signals Briefs
October 21st, 2025
The Hobby Industry Coalition (HIC) unites manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to protect the future of America’s toy and hobby industry. Our mission is simple: ensure fair trade policy, preserve small-business vitality, and keep model railroading, R/C vehicles, and plastic model building accessible to families, educators, and communities across the nation.
To keep members informed during this critical period, HIC publishes 'Clear Signals'-brief fact-based updates on trade and tariff developments that directly affect your business. Here's today's edition.
Government Shutdown Slows Tariff Decisions – Trade Keeps Moving, Relief on Hold
What’s Going On
The federal shutdown hasn’t stopped imports from moving, but it’s made everything slower in Washington. Customs is still collecting duties and clearing shipments, but offices like USTR, Commerce, and State are short on staff. That means tariff reviews, exclusion renewals, and trade meetings are mostly on pause until funding returns.
Who’s Feeling It
-
Importers and distributors waiting for exclusion or renewal decisions
-
Manufacturers that need updates on parts or classifications
-
Small businesses—including toy and hobby companies—still paying Section 301 tariffs
Why It Matters
Tariffs are being collected, but the tools to adjust or suspend them are basically idle. Reviews that could bring relief to hobby importers are delayed, and even international talks with China have slowed.
What to Expect
Until the shutdown ends, don’t expect much action on tariff renewals or policy changes. A few urgent moves could happen under “essential function” orders, but those would be limited and short-term. For now, trade keeps moving—but policy is standing still.
Could the U.S.–China Tariff Pause Be Extended?
Possibly. It’s hard to do while the government is shut down because several agencies have to sign off. If they’re back up and running before the November 10 deadline, an extension could happen quickly. If not, the White House might hold things in place temporarily to avoid shaking the markets.
What It Means for Hobby Businesses
The Hobby Industry Coalition is keeping close watch while Washington’s gears turn slowly. Tariffs are still in effect, and major changes won’t happen until the government reopens or the White House steps in directly. HIC will continue tracking every agency update and let you know the moment Section 301 reviews restart.
Join the Effort
As a charter-member retailer, you can play a direct role in this work. By supporting HIC, you help fund the industry’s unified voice in federal decision-making and secure a future for the stores and customers who keep the hobby alive. Together, we can keep America’s hobby industry thriving—one store, one family, one community at a time.
On behalf of the Board of Directors: Stacey Walthers Naffah • Craig Fuller • Tom Haedrich • Chris Dickerson • Jason Shron
Join now and be recognized on hobbycoalition.org and in official materials as one of the founding companies that helped secure the hobby industry's future.