How the tariff war trend could impact the outdoor furniture and restaurant furniture industry

1. Shift from “Made in China” to “Made in Diversified Asia”

Many buyers in the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S. are actively seeking suppliers outside of China to avoid tariffs.
Trend: Factories in Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Turkey are rising stars for outdoor furniture, especially in wood, rope, and rattan categories.
Opportunity: Chinese factories that set up branches abroad or offer flexible FOB/EXW terms will have a competitive edge.

 2. Increased Customization & Small-Order Flexibility

Large importers are becoming cautious due to higher import duties, so they prefer trial orders, modular pieces, or multi-function sets.
Trend: Compact outdoor sets, stackable chairs, and versatile restaurant bases with modern designs are hot.
Tip: Offer quick-ship models, custom branding, and even knock-down (KD) packaging to help clients reduce shipping costs.

3. Price-Sensitive Buyers, Value-Driven Decisions

The higher tariffs push end buyers (restaurants, hotels, resellers) to become extremely cost-conscious, comparing landed costs more carefully than ever.
Trend: Mid-range outdoor furniture (e.g., aluminum frames with Textilene mesh) are in high demand vs. high-end teak or cast aluminum.
Tip: Create “tariff-friendly collections” using alternative materials and efficient packaging.

 4. Recycled & Sustainable Furniture Demand

Amid rising costs, eco-friendly and recycled material pieces are gaining popularity—especially when paired with a meaningful story.
Trend: Buyers in Europe and the Middle East love green marketing (e.g., FSC wood, recycled aluminum, or water-based powder coatings).
Idea: Develop a “Green Patio” collection or “Eco Bistro Line” with a clean, export-friendly brand name.

5. Digital Showrooms & B2B Social Media Channels

Trade show uncertainty and tariff-related travel barriers lead many buyers to shop and verify suppliers 100% online.
Trend: Brands with beautiful photo/video catalogs, LinkedIn presence, and instant response win trust faster.
Tip: Keep your LinkedIn, Alibaba, or WhatsApp catalogs updated — and showcase real factory scenes, packaging processes, and client cases.

6. Demand for Smart Shipping Solutions

Tariffs on freight and handling fees are rising too. Clients look for suppliers who can optimize logistics.
Trend: Nested chairs, flat-packed tables, and bulk-buy combos (e.g., chair + base + top) are highly favored.
Tip: Offer optimized container loading plans and bundle kits for restaurant use (e.g., “4 chairs + 1 base + 1 top”).

7. Stronger Supplier Relationships

Clients are now seeking loyal, transparent, and experienced partners who can guide them through tough times, not just quote low prices.
Your Edge: Be the one who educates buyers on tariff options, offers flexible payment terms, and advises them smartly on material choices.