Trump's tariffs hit golf carts — his favorite mode of transportation
Even Trump's golf cart isn't safe from his trade policies (Illustrative photo: Facebook)
Golf carts, Donald Trump's second-favorite ride after the presidential limo, are the latest victims of his trade war, exposing how deeply even the US-assembled products depend on global supply chains, reports NBC News.
Golf carts: An American icon with foreign roots
Despite being branded as American-made, golf carts from leading US companies like Club Car and E-Z-Go heavily rely on international components.
While both brands assemble their vehicles in the US, they source parts from countries like China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Germany, and Vietnam.
Engines, GPS systems, brakes, axles, and even cup holders are imported, leaving the supply chains of these companies highly vulnerable to Trump's aggressive tariff policy.
Trump riding in a golf cart (Photo: Facebook)
"'Made in America' doesn't mean 'Exempt in America,'" said Michael Kanko, CEO of ImportGenius. "The price increases on consumer goods from tariffs is one thing, but this highlights how American manufacturers are also at risk."
In 2024 alone, the US imported $709 million worth of fully assembled golf carts — $703 million of that came from China.
A small vehicle caught in a big war
The US International Trade Commission has already ruled that Chinese imports are harming the domestic low-speed vehicle market.
A final decision on tariffs for Chinese-made golf carts is expected on June 17, and if imposed, it may shift the market in favor of Club Car and E-Z-Go — though at a cost. These companies, entangled in global sourcing, now face the tough choice of raising prices or slashing profits.
According to Global Market Insights, Club Car and E-Z-Go controlled over 37% of the market in 2024, and the entire industry is forecast to grow by 8% annually through 2034.
But this growth could be derailed if tariffs further disrupt global parts supply. "In an era of global supply chains, it is difficult to find complex goods that are entirely produced from inputs that themselves come from one country," said Jason Miller of Michigan State University.
Even Trump's personal golf cart can't escape the ripple effects of his own policies — a vivid reminder that Trump's trade war is out of control, with unintended consequences reaching deep into everyday American industries.
