For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Indians visiting the USA, shopping has always been a cherished ritual. The allure of snagging the latest gadgets, trendy clothes, or luxury goods to gift family and friends back in India is hard to resist. But the mood has shifted. Rising tariffs under the Trump administration’s trade policies, coupled with economic uncertainty, are hitting US retail hard and NRIs are feeling the pinch. A recent Bloomberg article highlights how tourists are spending less, with some skipping the US entirely, putting nearly $20 billion in retail spending at risk this year. So, how does this affect the NRI shopping experience?
Prices Up, Gift Bags Down
Picture this: you’re in a US mall, eyeing that perfect smartphone or designer jacket for your cousin’s wedding gift. But the price tag? It’s higher than last year. Tariffs on imported goods have jacked up costs, especially for electronics and clothing staples on many NRI shopping lists. “I used to load up on gadgets for everyone back home” says Priya, an NRI in California. “Now, I’m lucky if I can afford half as much.” The result? Smaller gift hauls and tougher choices about who gets what.
New Shopping Habits
It’s not just about cost economic uncertainty is making NRIs rethink how they shop. Some are switching to online stores for better deals, while others are holding off, hoping prices drop. Gift preferences are shifting too. High-end items are losing ground to practical picks like kitchenware or locally made goods less affected by tariffs. “I’m buying fewer fancy things and more useful stuff now” notes Ravi, a New Jersey-based NRI. “It’s just smarter this way.”
What’s Next?
If trade tensions drag on, the changes could stick. NRIs might start shopping elsewhere think Dubai or Singapore or lean harder into e-commerce with international shipping. US retailers, already reeling from the tourist spending dip, might cut back on the discounts NRIs love. The Bloomberg report underscores the stakes: a $20 billion hit to retail isn’t small change. For NRIs, it’s a sign the golden days of US shopping sprees might be fading.
The Takeaway
Rising tariffs are rewriting the NRI shopping story in the USA. Gift-giving traditions aren’t dying they’re just adapting. Whether it’s fewer items, savvier buys, or new destinations, the NRI community’s resilience shines through. How are you navigating these changes? Drop your thoughts on our social media or join our WhatsApp channel for the latest NRI updates!
