Christmas business for arts and crafts is going well

Uncertain impact of US customs policy on demand

However, its customs policy is also affecting the arts and crafts sector. Exports account for 20 to 25 percent, the majority of which is accounted for by the USA (around 80 percent), explains Günther. Since the end of August, tariffs of 15 percent have also applied to these products. However, many goods were delivered to retailers before this date. The extent to which the tariffs will affect demand in the USA therefore remains to be seen. "This year we have still slipped through," says Bilz.

International developments and crises do not stop at arts and crafts in the Ore Mountains. Birch plywood is still scarce and expensive, explains association head Günther. The background to this is the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus as a result. If anything, the situation has worsened, as there were initially still stocks at dealers, says Günther. The plywood is mainly used for candle arches.

This year, there were also reportedly supply problems with musical movements for music boxes, which are sourced from a supplier in Japan. The exact reasons are unclear, says Günther. "This affects an entire product group." As a result, orders could not be fulfilled. However, a remedy has now been found.

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