Big Take Asia India Wanted to Become The World’s Toymaker. Then Tariffs Happened
Dec 9, 2025
Alana Waldenberg-Ruffman, Vice President of Product Development at Learning Resources, shares insights on the impact of U.S. tariffs on American toy manufacturing. She discusses the company’s shift from China to India and Vietnam due to escalating tariffs. The conversation highlights the chaos in toy factories adapting to sudden policy changes, the challenges of maintaining quality, and the innovative strategies Indian manufacturers are employing to collaborate and overcome financial roadblocks. Alana emphasizes the need for stability in U.S. trade policy to foster long-term manufacturing success.
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Rushed Shipment Lost By Last-Minute Tariff
- Amitabh rushed a shipment of plush-covered yoga balls to beat an abrupt U.S. tariff hike.
- The late arrival still faced a 50% tariff and cost Learning Resources about $50,000.
Family Factories Hit By Policy Whiplash
- Families run many Indian toy factories and feel the shock of tariff whiplash directly.
- Sunlord scaled back growth plans and paused new investments because of sudden U.S. policy shifts.
Warehouse Full Of Unsold Toys
- Microplastics sits with warehouses full of finished toys after U.S. buyers paused orders.
- Vijendra estimates up to $20 million in stuck goods and $15 million in lost new business.