How Trump Tariffs Impact the Art Market

What Artists, Galleries and Collectors need to know

While recent changes in United States trade policy may raise questions, rest assured: buying and selling art on Artsper is not affected. Artsper continues to provide the same smooth, transparent experience—no extra fees, no hidden costs.

Recap

A key plank of President Trump’s economic agenda, tariffs are taxes placed on goods imported to the U.S. Tariffs are usually calculated as a percentage and are paid to the government. For example a tariff of 20% on a product worth 10$ means that the final cost to import it in the U.S. is 10$ + 2$ (20% of 10$)= 12$.

The 2nd of April the president of the United States Donald Trump announced the introduction of global tariffs:

⚈ Canada: All items imported into the United States from Canada are subject to a 25% general tax. A 25% retaliatory tax has been placed by Canada on a number of American items. These include “paintings, drawings, and pastels, executed entirely by hand.”

⚈ Mexico: All products imported into the United States from Mexico are subject to a 25% general tariff. Although the specifics have not yet been made public, Mexico has threatened to retaliate with its own set of tariffs.

⚈ China: Although artwork is now exempt, a general 20% duty has been applied on imports from China and Hong Kong. China has declared a number of responsive actions, including restrictions on agricultural goods. Art is not thought to be impacted.

⚈ European Union: Trump has announced 20% tariffs on all imports from the 26-country bloc.

On the 9th of April the president Trump announced a 90 days suspension of most new tariffs under his reciprocal tariff policy. This decision came after appeals from over 75 countries and concerns from financial markets. Simultaneously, tariffs on Chinese imports were dramatically increased to 125%, citing Beijing equivalent retaliatory measures.

The impact on the art market

These actions might impact the sentiment of the art market if the suspension is lifted after ninety days. First of all a rise of prices for all the artworks imported in the U.S. from the aforementioned nations. For instance, the price of a piece of art purchased from the European Union in the United States may be 20% higher than its claimed worth. A flat tax on artwork can mount up to tens of thousands of dollars for a U.S. collector. Furthermore, tariffs may raise the price of foreign travel and materials for galleries and artists in addition to the cost of importing artwork. This is happening in China, where artworks are not directly affected, but other materials such as plaster and aluminum are.

What happens now with Artsper?

The global art market is navigating a period of change following the recent U.S. tariff measures. While the broader trade environment remains dynamic, artworks are currently exempt—offering continued freedom for international exchange. As the situation evolves, Artsper remains firmly committed to empowering and supporting our partners and collectors every step of the way.

What Artsper can do for sellers

As Europe’s leading online platform for contemporary art, Artsper has helped over 1,900 galleries achieve success over the last 10 years, connecting them with a strong collector base across France, the US, and Europe. We provide you with the tools and visibility to grow, even in volatile times.

1. 🔎 Geotarget on Local Buyers

In January 2025 alone, our US partners experienced a 337% increase in gross revenue from domestic sales compared to the previous year. Artsper’s advanced geo-targeting tools ensure that collectors in your region can find and purchase your artworks with ease. As tariffs shift, securing local visibility and conversion is more critical than ever.

2. 🌍 Enhance visibility into Europe’s Largest Art Market

With 60% of our collectors based in Europe, Artsper gives you instant access to the continent’s most vibrant and stable art market. European collectors are actively seeking contemporary art. Therefore this the perfect moment to diversify your revenue streams and reduce exposure to market risks.

3. 📈Rely on Artsper’s Expertise in Volatile Times

From COVID to economic fluctuations, we’ve helped galleries adapt quickly and stay profitable. Our team provides ongoing support, real-time data insights, and marketing tools to ensure you get the most from the platform.

Mark Kostabi, America, 2002 available on Artsper

What Artsper can do for buyers

Over the past 10 years, we’ve built a robust network that connects art lovers with exceptional galleries and artistic talent across the globe. In this evolving trade environment, our mission remains unchanged: to make collecting art seamless, inspiring, and secure—no matter where you are. 

1.💸 Special discount for Artworks shipped from U.S.

To make collecting even easier for you, we’ve curated a selection of artworks shipped directly from the U.S. As a bonus, enjoy 5% off your order with the code NOBORDERS, valid through May 31st.

2. 📩 Continuous updates

Artsper is closely monitoring all developments related to U.S. tariffs and international trade. You’ll receive timely, accurate updates so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

3. 🤝Customs and shipping assistance

Artsper’s logistics team is here to guide you through customs procedures, clarify any duty-related questions, and ensure that your artwork arrives safely and without complications—no matter where you’re located.

4. 🧑‍🔧A Flexible, Evolving Platform

If trade conditions become more complex, we’re ready to adapt. Whether that means adjusting our processes, offering tailored guidance, or improving our digital tools, our priority remains clear: to support your collecting journey with ease and efficiency

John Kilduff, Beer Aisle, 2024, available on Artsper

As the U.S. tariff landscape continues to shift, it’s clear that global trade—and the art market with it—is entering a new phase of transformation. For artists, galleries, and collectors alike, these changes bring both challenges and opportunities. This period of change is your chance to grow, but timing is everything. In uncertain times, being part of a forward-thinking platform like Artsper can make all the difference. Seize the moment—your next opportunity could be just one connection away.