Perhaps you've heard recent news regarding tariffs and the removal of batteries from certain products . With information floating all over the place, it can be hard to figure out what's going on. Questions may be running through your mind: Why are tariffs removing batteries from light bulbs? What does this mean for the lighting industry and my home?
Let’s discuss these problems and the changes they’ll implement in these upcoming points.
The short answer is yes. To both save on costs and to stay within the competitive ring of marketing, manufacturers have resorted to removing batteries from products, along with other cost-effective actions.
Due to the tariffs implemented in 2025, prices of battery-related items have significantly increased. Chinese imports in particular have been instating these practices to help reduce the price increase resulting from tariffs.
Batteries are an essential aspect of everyday life. We use them in our remotes, toys, and many other electrical devices. It’s safe to say that the removal of batteries from multiple products is inconvenient compared to what we're used to. Many of us have grown to expect their products to include batteries.
Now that batteries are to be purchased separately, what can we expect to see while shopping?
With the inconveniences of these new changes explained, you may now be wondering which specific products will be affected. So, let’s talk about them.
Battery operated toys with AA or AAA batteries will be affected by the ban. Familiar names such as Mattel, Hasbro, and Basic Fun!, are looking to take part in the cost efficient practice of removing batteries. Though the tariffs play a direct part in this change, safety regulations also have their part in encouraging this shift.
Useful trinkets such as wireless keyboards and handheld fans will be affected, along with LED flashlights.
As time goes on, things will fluctuate. Different products will join the bandwagon, and perhaps, some will even hop off it. At the end of the day, we’ll just have to keep our eyes peeled and pay a little more attention to product descriptions.
It goes without saying that many products are being affected by the recent tariffs, not just battery-operated ones. And as our name suggests, we’re especially aware of how the lighting industry is being hit right now.
LEDs greatly depend on components like chips and drivers, these components are mainly received from China. So with the tariffs strongly affecting goods sourced from there, it makes sense that their prices have gone up.
It also doesn’t help that LEDs are not as globally manufactured compared to other lighting options. This leads to various problems when it comes to distribution.
Though LEDs are taking the heaviest hit in the lighting industry, it’s important to note that non-LED products are still significantly impacted by the tariffs.
Halogen, fluorescent, and incandescent bulbs require important materials like metal housing, glass, and wiring; such products are also primarily sourced from China.
Adapting to new things is never easy, so here’s some tips that might prove useful for you.
It might just be time to take an interest in rechargeable batteries. Compared to other options, you get more for your dime with rechargeable batteries. While the upfront cost is higher, they come with great reusability. Not to mention, they also have a healthier impact on our ecosystems.
Carefully examine product listings and descriptions. Reputable sites like Lightbulbs.com will clarify whether or not batteries will be included with the product.
If you’re looking to purchase a product you know comes without batteries, why not stock up in advance? Button cells, AA, and AAA batteries are the most common battery types. So if you want to start somewhere, those three are good options.
These tips won't reverse the changes put in effect by the tariffs. However, they might give you the edge when it comes to navigating everything smoothly.
With the implementation of tariffs in 2025, lots of changes have impacted the lighting world. Batteries have been removed from particular products and the prices of certain toys, trinkets, and LEDs are reaching an upward trajectory. It can all seem overwhelming, but there are ways to work through these things. By being diligent, prepared, and willing to try new things, stuff can start to seem a little less scary.
If you’re looking for a good place to shop during these new and difficult times, check out lightbulbs.com
- we can help you find what you’re looking for.