Tariff Jitters Slow World Cup Merchandise Orders In China

By ANITA KNIGHT

WORLD Cup merchandise producers in China’s Yiwu hub are facing sluggish demand as trade tensions with the U.S. unsettle buyers.

Factories like Yiwu Wells Knitting Product, long-time suppliers of scarves and sports accessories, report only small orders so far, with larger deals stalled due to tariff uncertainty.

Typically flooded with international requests months before the tournament, Yiwu vendors say this year’s slowdown reflects buyers’ caution ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

Exporters fear prolonged tariff disputes could further squeeze sales, though many remain hopeful demand will pick up if trade clarity improves before the games.