When trade disputes between the United States and China make headlines, you might expect the focus to be on heavy industry, cutting-edge technology, or critical minerals. Golf carts, however, are now unexpectedly cruising into the spotlight of a high-stakes economic showdown.

A Game-Changing Ruling

In early 2025, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) delivered a decision that’s turning heads in both the sporting goods world and international trade circles. The commission concluded that Chinese-made golf carts—officially categorized as Low Speed Personal Transportation Vehicles—are being sold in the U.S. at prices far below fair market value. This practice, known as “dumping,” has put domestic manufacturers in a chokehold.

The consequences are steep. Depending on the manufacturer, incoming tariffs could range from 31% to an eye-watering 679%. On top of that, antidumping penalties of 119% to 478% will further inflate costs for these imports.

Why American Manufacturers Are Feeling the Pressure

For U.S. golf cart makers like Club Car and E-Z-GO, the challenge has been fierce. While some Chinese-built carts are available online for under $1,000, American-built models often start above $8,000.

The numbers tell the story: in 2024, China accounted for a staggering 99% of all assembled golf cart imports to the U.S., valued at $703 million. That dominance has chipped away at domestic market share, leaving U.S. producers with just 37% of the industry.

Calls for Protection

Georgia Congressman Rick Allen, representing a district home to both Club Car and E-Z-GO, has been a vocal advocate for imposing tariffs. His argument is straightforward: without decisive action, U.S. manufacturers could be forced out entirely—paving the way for China to control the market and raise prices at will.

“They’ve done it before,” Allen warns. “First they flood the market with cheap products—steel, golf carts, whatever it is—until the competition disappears. Then you’re left at their mercy.”

Beyond Price Tags—Into Policy Territory

The ITC’s decision brings two powerful trade tools into play: antidumping duties to target below-market pricing and countervailing duties to counter foreign subsidies. Supporters argue these measures are critical to protecting American jobs and industrial capacity.

Critics, however, question whether golf carts carry the same strategic weight as products tied to national security, such as semiconductors or rare earth elements.

The Road Ahead

Whether these tariffs will help U.S. manufacturers claw back market share—or simply intensify trade hostilities—remains an open question. What’s certain is that in today’s interconnected global economy, even a vehicle designed for fairways and resorts can find itself at the center of a geopolitical crossfire.

Quick Stats: Golf Carts in the Trade Dispute

  • Tariff Ranges: 31% – 679%

  • Antidumping Duties: 119% – 478%

  • Price Comparison: Chinese imports under $1,000; U.S.-built models $8,000+

  • Market Share Shift: China controls 99% of U.S. golf cart imports; U.S. producers hold 37% of industry share

  • Import Value (2024): $703 million worth of assembled golf carts