Apparel and footwear brands are rushing to reduce their reliance on Chinese imports in anticipation of higher tariffs under a potential second Trump administration. Steve Madden plans to cut imports from China by 40% to 50%, increasing sourcing from countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, Mexico, and Brazil. Ralph Lauren has also ramped up production in other markets to mitigate risks. The proposed tariffs, including a 60% tax on Chinese goods, would raise costs for US companies, potentially leading to higher prices or squeezed profit margins. Industry leaders, such as Under Armour and Walmart, warn of the negative impact on consumer spending, with estimates showing consumers could face billions of dollars in higher costs. Despite these efforts, companies face challenges in shifting manufacturing away from China, given the country’s unmatched production capabilities.