CHICAGO — On Feb. 4, the Trump Administration’s 10% tariff on all products imported from China took effect. China placed its own tariffs in response.
On Feb. 3, 25% tariffs on goods exported to the U.S. from Mexico and Canada were delayed for 30 days. Trump has spoken about imposing tariffs for the EU as well.
Trade Show Executive connected with thought leaders from across the events industry to get their perspectives on these developments.
Vinnie Polito, CEO of the Society of Independent Show Organizers:
“It’s a situation that clearly bears watching but is unlikely to have much short-term effect. Should countries be unable to come to a resolution and should tariffs increase to a more onerous level (25%+), it could have a negative effect if exhibitors from affected countries start making alternative decisions on where to exhibit. We’re going to choose to believe that accommodations can be found and that trade shows offer international exhibitors the most efficient way to get to market during uncertain times.”
International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM:
“As part of the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), IAEE is closely monitoring any possible impacts of new tariffs on exhibitions. These new tariffs are poised to introduce several challenges which could include increased costs to our ecosystem, supply chain disruptions, potential declines in international participation and economic uncertainty. Given the fluidity of the situation, we will continue to assess its progress and support industry stakeholders in navigating these challenges.”
Julie Kagy, CEM, Executive Director of the Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA):
“As a proud member of the ECA, ESCA is closely monitoring the potential impact of these tariffs on the exhibitions industry. Our industry must be prepared to navigate any disruption to costs, supply chains or international participation. We remain committed to working alongside our sister organizations to support our members and advocate for the health and resilience of the events ecosystem.”
Shameka Jennings, MTA, CMP, DES, CAE, Principal and Chief Events Officer at EventsNoire:
“The exhibition industry thrives on global commerce, international exhibitors, and large-scale logistics. With new and proposed tariffs, there’s potential for increased costs on materials, technology, catering, and venue operations — factors that could impact how trade shows are designed, budgeted, and executed. But rather than just reacting to potential cost shifts, this is an opportunity for event professionals to be proactive.
“Planners and industry leaders need to rethink sourcing strategies, support exhibitors in cost-effective ways, and explore local and domestic suppliers to mitigate potential pricing shifts. The question isn’t just about rising costs — it’s about how we adapt. The industry has always been resilient and innovative, and this is another moment to get ahead of the curve. By working together, we can keep exhibitions high-impact, high-value, and future-ready—no matter what changes come our way.”
Peter Rupert, PhD, Professor of Economics at the University of California Santa Barbara:
“There are compelling reasons as to why virtually all economists oppose tariffs. First, most tariffs are placed on intermediate goods and not on final goods. This means that the cost of using these inputs are likely spread across the economy.
The increase in costs almost always leads to an increase in the price of the goods we buy. Just how much the price rises will differ across products. For example, when tariffs were imposed on solar panels the price of panels rose by nearly the amount of the tariff, therefore it was the American consumer who ‘paid’ the price of the tariff. Second, due to the higher costs of production, output typically falls. This means that firms tend to shed workers. Tariff (trade) wars are a lose-lose policy as both sides are worse off.”
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