James Martin/CNET
Amazon Prime Day, the mega retailer's summer shopping event, is set for July 8-11 this year -- doubling in size from two to four days. Exclusive to Prime members, it offers some of the best Amazon deals of the year, but looming price hikes due to tariffs could impact how much of a savings shoppers can expect.
Amazon launched Prime Day back in 2015, and savvy shoppers have eagerly anticipated this annual event ever since. But this year, the event could overlap with the resumption of President Donald Trump's "reciprocal tariffs." He announced the tariffs in April, quickly putting them on a 90-day pause. But the expiration date is July 9 -- right in the middle of the Prime Day sales event.
Countries could face double-digit tariff hikes if they don't reach an agreement by the deadline. Companies would likely pass through additional costs associated with tariffs to consumers -- meaning we could pay more for everything, including electronics.
Most imported products for Prime Day will likely already be in the US and shouldn't be subject to newly imposed tariffs, but there could be exceptions, according to Timothy Meyer, Richard Allen/Cravath distinguished professor in international business law, Duke University School of Law.
"If for some reason the goods have not already been imported, then they could be affected by any tariffs," he said. "Sellers could not pass on the price of the tariffs after the consumer has purchased the goods, but it is possible that sellers might raise their prices during the sale."
Our CNET Deals team will track all the best deals throughout the event so you can score the lowest prices. This will help you navigate the sale and stay ahead of any tariff-based price rises.
Read more: Don't Wait: Score an Instant $200 Amazon Gift Card Ahead of Prime Day With This Card
Watch this: Should You Buy Now or Wait? Our Experts Weigh In on Tariffs 09:42
How could tariffs affect Prime Day deals?
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