Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Chinese Golf Carts: What Buyers Need to Know in 2025

US Tarrifs on Chinese Golf Carts

Industry News

Golf carts have become more than just vehicles for the course — they’re essential for recreation, property management, events, and personal transport around Lake Livingston and beyond.

But as of early 2025, major changes are reshaping the golf cart industry.

If you’re shopping for a golf cart in Texas, especially in the Lake Livingston area, it’s crucial to understand how the latest U.S. tariffs on Chinese golf carts will affect pricing, inventory, parts, and long-term value.

Let’s break down what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can protect your investment.

Why These Tariffs Were Put in Place

The U.S. Department of Commerce began investigating Chinese-made Low-Speed Personal Transportation Vehicles (LSPTVs) in 2024 after a dramatic increase in low-cost imports.

Their findings?

  • Dumping: Chinese manufacturers were selling golf carts in the U.S. below fair market value.

  • Subsidies: The Chinese government was giving these companies unfair advantages in the form of financial assistance, violating World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

In response, the U.S. issued two rounds of tariffs:

  • Countervailing duties (November 2024): 22% to 515%

  • Antidumping duties (January 2025): 127% to 478%

These are stacked, meaning importers could now face combined duties exceeding 600% — a massive shift that will significantly reshape the market.

How the Tariffs Affect You as a Golf Cart Buyer

These tariffs don’t just hit importers — they will directly affect consumers in several ways.

1. Chinese-Made Golf Carts Will Get More Expensive

Many affordable Chinese carts are seeing price hikes as sellers adjust to cover costs or exit the market altogether.

2. Some Brands May Disappear

Smaller brands that relied on low pricing may exit the U.S. market. Even if they remain, parts and support could become scarce.

3. Parts & Accessories Are Also Impacted

Vendors have already issued price increase warnings for:

  • Select EZGO accessories

  • Popular battery brands like Trojan (5% increase starting April 2nd)

  • Import-only replacement parts

If you’re purchasing a cart that relies on imported components, be prepared for delays, backorders, or price jumps.

Brands Likely Affected by the New Tariffs

While the official U.S. Commerce documents name dozens of suppliers, here are some golf cart brands and manufacturers likely to experience the largest disruptions:

  • Breezy

  • Bintelli

  • Epic Carts

  • Evolution Electric Vehicles

  • Advanced EV

  • Massimo

  • Star EV

  • Vivid EV

  • Aetric

  • Tomberlin (select models)

  • ICON (select models)

Many of these brands either fully manufacture in China or rely heavily on Chinese components.

Some may raise prices, while others may pull back from the U.S. market altogether.

What Should You Do as a Buyer in 2025?

Whether you’re buying new or used, consider the following tips to navigate the current market:

Stick with Trusted, Established Brands

Names like EZGO, Club Car, and Yamaha have a long-standing U.S. presence, reliable supply chains, and authorized dealers. They’re not immune to market changes, but they offer stable parts availability and warranty support.

Check out the latest models: → Explore our new inventory

Buy From Local Dealerships with Parts & Service Support

Online prices might look appealing, but local dealerships like Lake Livingston Golf Cars provide:

  • On-site service

  • Parts inventory

  • Warranty support

  • Fast turnaround times

→ See our service options

Be Cautious With “Too Good to Be True” Prices

Deep discounts could signal a brand that’s:

  • Being phased out

  • No longer offering warranty support

  • Using hard-to-replace parts

Ask the dealer if the cart or parts are affected by tariffs.

Consider a High-Quality Used Cart

A well-maintained used cart from a trusted brand can be a great hedge against rising prices.

→ Explore used carts at Lake Livingston Golf Cars

Long-Term Implications for the Golf Cart Market

As the dust settles, here’s what we can expect over the next 12–24 months:

  • Higher average cart prices, especially for entry-level models

  • Increased demand for used golf carts in good condition

  • Longer lead times for parts from affected brands

  • Greater reliance on established American-based or North American-assembled carts

LLGC’s Take on the Tariff Shift

At Lake Livingston Golf Cars, our priority is helping customers make smart, informed purchases — especially in times of change.

We’re actively sourcing quality inventory and adapting to shifting supplier availability so you get reliable performance without the headache of surprise maintenance issues.

Whether you need a cart for the course, lakefront property, business, or recreational use, we’re here to walk you through the best options for 2025 and beyond.

Want help picking a cart that won’t be affected by tariffs?

→ Contact us today or swing by our Lake Livingston location.

Final Thoughts

The new tariffs are a major turning point for the U.S. golf cart industry. They’re designed to protect American businesses and level the playing field — but they also create real consequences for consumers.

Now more than ever, it’s important to choose:

  • Trusted brands

  • Local support

  • Proven carts

Let Lake Livingston Golf Cars be your guide through this changing market.

Need Help Choosing a Golf Cart That’s Tariff-Safe?

→ Browse new carts

→ Check out our used selection

→ Or talk to our expert team — we’ll help you find the perfect ride.