Erratic Trade Policies Are Disrupting Responsible Business
At Bambu, we’ve built our brand around values—responsibility, sustainability, and transparency. But in recent months, those very values are being challenged not by market forces, but by arbitrary and erratic trade policies that threaten global supply chains and put small businesses at risk.
From overnight tariff hikes to inconsistent policy enforcement, the impact on values-driven companies is real—and growing.
Arbitrary trade rules are endangering ethical business models and responsible global sourcing.
We are experiencing firsthand the wide-ranging and often chaotic impact that tariffs are having on small, sustainably-minded businesses.
Tariffs with No Rhyme or Reason
Recent changes in U.S. trade policy—like the abrupt shift from a 145% to 30% tariff on imports from China—illustrate how arbitrary and destabilizing these measures have become.
For a company like Bambu, which relies on FSC-certified, renewable bamboo not grown commercially in the U.S., these shifts wreak havoc on product pricing, inventory planning, and long-term sustainability goals. These aren’t just numbers—they’re disruptions that affect our team, our customers, and our commitment to the planet.
The Domino Effect: Beyond Our Borders
These tariffs don’t just hit importers. American farmers, exporters, and manufacturers are being impacted too—facing retaliatory duties and fractured trade relationships. What was intended as economic leverage is turning into economic damage, especially for those trying to innovate responsibly.
Worse still, small and independent businesses—without massive war chests or complex tax shelters—are the ones left most vulnerable.
We’re a Certified B Corporation—and We’re Speaking Up
As a B Corp, we stand with thousands of mission-driven companies calling for a smarter, fairer approach to trade. Tariffs should be targeted and strategic—not sweeping, reactionary, and devoid of long-term planning.
We believe values-led companies should be supported, not penalized.
These tariffs are not strategic. They’re reactionary. And they’re happening without oversight, data, or long-term vision.
What You Can Do to Help
Here’s how we can turn frustration into action:
1. Call Your Representatives
Use a tool like 5 Calls to contact lawmakers. Urge them to support fair, accountable trade policies that don’t punish sustainability-minded businesses.
If you're not sure where to put your energy, visit the website What Can I Do and select an issue or topic that concerns you. Find opportunities to get your voice heard.
What Can I Do
2. Spread the Word
Share this article. Forward it to your community, post it on LinkedIn, or tag a local official. Visibility is power.
3. Support Values-Driven Brands
Your purchases matter. Choosing businesses that prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainability sends a message—and helps keep them afloat in turbulent times.
4. Stay Informed
Follow economists like Joseph Politano (Apricitas Economics) and trade experts to stay updated on what’s happening behind the headlines.
5. Join the Advocacy
Encourage local chambers of commerce, business networks, and trade associations to demand clearer, fairer trade practices that support small, purpose-led businesses.
Let’s Trade Better
Tariffs aren’t inherently bad. But blunt, erratic policy hurts everyone—especially the people and brands working to make business better. Let’s demand a trade system that aligns with the future we all want to build.
In Solidarity,
The Bambu Team
People. Planet. Purpose.