How Importers Can Navigate the 50% Tariff on RTA Cabinets

The recent 50% tariff on RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets has shaken the industry. Importers, wholesalers, and project developers are all asking the same question: Can Southeast Asian cabinets still remain competitive under such high duties?

At Summit, we believe the answer is yes. While the tariff has raised the threshold for imported cabinets, with the right planning and strategies, Southeast Asian products continue to offer strong value compared to domestic options.

Smarter Material Planning

Materials are one of the biggest cost drivers in cabinet production. By taking a more flexible approach to material choices, significant savings can be achieved without compromising the overall look and functionality of the cabinets. This is especially important in multifamily and project-based developments, where cost-effectiveness plays a bigger role than luxury details.

Optimizing Cabinet Configurations

Not every cabinet type delivers the same value. Some popular options look good on paper but quickly drive up costs in practice. By simplifying cabinet configurations, customers can often achieve the same utility at a much lower investment. These smart adjustments can create savings per unit that add up significantly in large projects.

Reducing Rework Through Better Planning

Hidden costs often appear in the form of rework, miscommunication, and project delays. With better planning and clearer communication before production, these risks can be greatly reduced. When every party is aligned from the start, projects move faster, smoother, and with fewer unexpected expenses.

Smarter Logistics and Packaging

Transportation and customs clearance have always been critical factors in importing. In today’s tariff environment, they matter even more. By working with reliable partners and adopting more efficient packaging and logistics solutions, companies can lower both shipping costs and risks during the process.

Why Summit?

The 50% tariff has certainly created new challenges, but it has also widened the gap between suppliers who can adapt and those who cannot. At Summit, we’ve developed a framework of 11 cost-saving methods that are already being applied for importers, wholesalers, and project developers across North America.

These methods touch on every step of the supply chain—from materials and cabinet design, to logistics, financing, and digital tools. Each customer’s needs are different, and that’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we work closely with clients to design a cost-saving path tailored to their situation.

Conclusion

Southeast Asian cabinets are not losing their edge—they are evolving. With smart adjustments in supply chain and project planning, RTA imports remain highly competitive even under the 50% tariff.

At Summit, our goal is simple: help our customers stay profitable and competitive in this new market reality. Contact us today to learn how our 11 cost-saving methods can be customized for your business.