Tariff update on CULTURED pearls?

[acp-pearls]

Back in September, the AGTA announced an update on tariff relief on natural pearls. Does anyone know if cultured pearls are being considered as well?

AGTA Says Colored Gems and Natural Pearls Are Duty-Free | the Centurion

news.centurionjewelry.com

 

[jshepherd]

I had a call with John Ford of AGTA on Tuesday about the tariff situation. There are some countries that may eventually see relief (China not likely being one of them), but there is a process each needs to go through and it is time consuming. As for now, cultured pearls are not exempt.

 

[acp-pearls]

Thanks for the response, Jeremy. I'm wondering what the Tucson Gem Show will look like if tariffs don't ease soon... February is right around the corner!

 

[Lagoon Island Pearls]

I'm wondering what the Tucson Gem Show will look like if tariffs don't ease soon.

If the patterns of tourism and state fairs are indicators, I expect attendance to the show will take a hit.

I know several vendors from Canada who have indicated they will not be attending this year. It's not just tariffs either. Unlawful search, seizure and deportation by ICE is also a grave concern.