Reciprocal Tariffs Take Effect: What Eye Care Professionals Need to Know
Eye care professionals and optical businesses across the US are bracing for major changes as the White House prepares to implement new reciprocal tariffs on imported goods from key trade partners beginning August 7, 2025. The tarriffs come following a temporary enforcement pause that began in April.
The Vision Council released a statement outlining the tariff rates, and the potential of creating ripple effects throughout the global optical supply chain—particularly in sourcing, pricing, and logistics strategies. The Vision Council said it is aiming to provide tools, data, and advocacy to help eye care professionals adapt to this evolving landscape.
A Closer Look: New Tariff Structure by Country
The Executive Order outlines reciprocal tariff rates ranging from 15% to 41%, depending on the country and product type. Unlisted countries will default to a 10% reciprocal rate.
China, the largest exporter of frames, lenses, and eyewear accessories to the U.S., will maintain a 10% reciprocal tariff for now, with additional changes pending August 12 based on ongoing trade negotiations
European Union, Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam face new rates between 15% and 20%, impacting a wide array of products including plastic frames and high-end lenses
India faces a 25% reciprocal tariff
Brazil is subject to 10% reciprocal and a 40% retaliatory tariff
Mexico and Canada are impacted under IEEPA measures, with Canada now at 35% (effective August 1) and Mexico granted a 90-day extension of its current 25% rate
The de minimis provision that allowed duty-free importation of shipments valued under $800 will end August 29, 2025, potentially increasing costs for small batch orders.
Impact on Core Optical Product Categories
The Vision Council has identified three core product categories that are likely to feel the most significant impact:
1. Sunglasses
China accounts for 89% of U.S. imports in this category
With China’s tariffs still under negotiation, sourcing uncertainty looms large
Italy (5%), Taiwan (3%), and Japan (1%) will see tariffs from 15% to 20%
2. Plastic Frames and Mountings
China supplies 72% of U.S. imports
Vietnam (6%), Taiwan (4%), Japan (3%), and Italy (9%) will all face new tariffs from 15% to 20%
Procurement teams should expect complex supply chain decisions as sourcing diversification becomes essential
3. Non-glass Lenses
Mexico leads with 26%, though most goods remain tariff-free under USMCA
China (19%), Thailand (15%), Indonesia (12%), and Laos (8%) face substantial new rates, with Laos at 40%—a significant disruptor
“The Vision Council is stepping forward to help members understand the implications of the latest reciprocal tariffs and advocate for sustainable solutions,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council. “These measures place new pressures on businesses—especially smaller and independent practices—and we are committed to offering actionable insights and support.”
To support its members, The Vision Council is:
Analyzing and interpreting new trade policy developments
Advocating in Washington for the interests of optical stakeholders
Offering exclusive member tools, including:
Real-time updates on policy shifts
A Tariff Dashboard simulation tool to evaluate cost impacts
Archived webinars and country-specific resources
For direct member support, contact:
Omar Elkhatib, Senior Manager of Government Relations
📧 oelkhatib@thevisioncouncil.orgRick Van Arnam, Regulatory Affairs Counsel
📧 rvanarnam@barnesrichardson.com
With tariffs set to reshape sourcing economics, optical retailers, labs, and ECPs should evaluate their supply chain dependencies, inventory strategies, and pricing models in light of these new cost pressures. Practices reliant on high-volume imports from China or Southeast Asia may need to diversify suppliers or reassess procurement timelines, according to The Vision Council.
As of August 7, compliance and cost mitigation planning will become essential for maintaining competitiveness. Eye care professionals should stay informed through The Vision Council’s updates and leverage its resources to safeguard operations amid ongoing global trade uncertainty.
The Vision Council’s full suite of tools and updates at thevisioncouncil.org.