Firework prices remain steady despite tariffs, Iran conflict
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV)-- With America's 250th birthday about a week away, many Americans are preparing to light up the skies by stocking up on fireworks.
Tariffs and the conflict with Iran have increased the cost of many products for American consumers, but fireworks won't be seeing that same increase.
Stacy Blake, president of the National Firework Association, said throughout the year, the tariffs have fluctuated.
"Right now, they are at the lowest point. That's only on shipments that just came in. During the year, they have fluctuated around 30% until the Supreme Court ruled some of them illegal," she said. "Right now, there is a pause on some of the tariffs percentages until after the 4th of July."
One local fireworks retailer, Kovac's Fireworks, said the tariffs have not affected the business too much.
"Last year was really tough, but this year we were able to get a lot of our fireworks in early," said Ryan Hook, an owner of the stand. "Before the conflict in Iran, and that's where we heard some of the higher prices from the higher oil and gas prices. We were lucky to get our stuff in early, so it didn't affect us at all."
Hook has worked to keep prices as low as possible, even lowering prices on some items.
"Just from talking to our customers, they have been very happy with our prices. Actually noticed the drop in prices for us in a lot of things," he said.
One shopper, Rachel Seura, noticed the low prices on fireworks and said she came to Kovac's Fireworks because she knows the prices are really good.
"Some of the tents we visited closer to home are just a little bit elevated, not as high as I anticipated, actually, so we were pleasantly surprised," she said.
Seura does plan on buying more fireworks this year, and her boys look forward to the holiday each year.
"Once 4th of July is over, we're pretty much counting down until the next year. We love the family and friends aspect. Being able to celebrate with friends and family, doing fireworks together, we all look forward to.
Kovac's Fireworks will be open from 9 a.m. until midnight leading up to the Fourth of July.
