If you’ve been keeping an eye on the news, you might’ve heard the word “tariffs” floating around again. Maybe it showed up in a headline, or someone mentioned it in a conversation about prices going up. If you’re someone who relies on cannabis products, especially things like edibles, oils, or tinctures, it’s completely fair to wonder: Is this going to affect me?
Here’s the good news. For the most part, it probably won’t. And if it does, the impact will be small, manageable, and unlikely to touch what matters most: the quality of your cannabis and your ability to get it.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on.
What’s Actually Happening With Tariffs in the U.S.?
Tariffs are taxes placed on goods imported from other countries. Governments use them for all kinds of reasons, sometimes to protect local industries, sometimes to encourage negotiations with trading partners. Right now, the U.S. is revisiting certain trade policies, including the possibility of new tariffs on items from countries like China.
Back on April 2, in a speech held at the White House Rose Garden, former President Trump proposed an increase in trade penalties for Chinese imports. These new reciprocal tariffs added 34% on top of existing rates, bringing the total tariffs on Chinese goods up to around 54%. For industries that source materials from China, that’s a substantial jump.
This conversation affects a wide range of products. Think electronics, steel, auto parts, and even some agricultural items. But here’s the thing: cannabis isn’t one of them.
Because cannabis is still federally illegal, the U.S. doesn’t import or export it across international borders. That includes cannabis plants, oils, extracts, and finished consumable products. By law, cannabis sold in a state has to be grown, processed, and distributed entirely within that state.
So while tariffs might impact industries that rely on global supply chains, cannabis production exists in a kind of bubble. That’s a good thing for consumers.
What About Equipment and Supplies?
This is where tariffs could play a very minor role. Some equipment used in cannabis processing (like industrial extractors or lighting systems) might include components that are imported. Packaging materials such as certain plastics, foils, or custom-designed containers could also be affected if they come from overseas.
But most cannabis businesses are already prepared for this. Many have domestic supply chains or long-term inventory strategies in place. Others work with U.S.-based vendors to source what they need. Even when a product includes imported parts, the increase in cost is usually small and absorbed into normal operating budgets.
That means you’re unlikely to see a noticeable change in your favorite gummy’s price or availability. The jar might look a little different, but the product inside will be the same.
Will Cannabis Quality or Access Change?
No. The quality of cannabis products, especially consumables, won’t be reduced due to tariffs. State regulations are strict when it comes to testing and safety. Companies are required to meet exact standards, and that doesn’t change just because packaging materials cost a few cents more.
Access also isn’t expected to shift. Because cannabis is produced locally, businesses aren’t dealing with international shipping delays or customs issues. Your dispensary shelves should stay stocked.
What About Medical Cannabis Patients?
For patients, consistency matters even more. If you use cannabis to manage pain, anxiety, sleep, or other conditions, any disruption can feel stressful. Thankfully, medical cannabis programs are built around stability. Patients can continue to rely on trusted dispensaries and licensed providers. In most states, medical cannabis is protected through a separate set of guidelines that prioritize access and affordability.
If you’re already certified for medical cannabis, you won’t need to do anything differently. If you’re not certified yet but are thinking about it, now is still a great time to explore your options.
Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?
No, you shouldn’t. While tariffs may affect some parts of the economy, they won’t shake up the cannabis industry in any major way. The supply is local. The quality is protected. And businesses are already working around any potential cost changes without passing them on to you.
If you’re hearing talk about economic shifts or supply chain issues, it’s okay to ask questions. But when it comes to cannabis consumables, there’s no reason to stress.
Elevate Holistics: A Reliable Source for Medical Cannabis
At Elevate Holistics, we keep up with what’s happening so you don’t have to. We help people across the country get their medical cannabis cards with ease, offering education, support, and straightforward access to the care they need.
If you’re thinking about getting certified or have questions about how medical cannabis might help you, we’re here to make the process simple.
Learn more about us and get started today so we can help you receive the care that you need.
