How Do Tariffs Affect the Price and Availability of Toner Cartridges—Especially the Cheap Generic Ones on Amazon?

If you've noticed toner cartridges becoming more expensive—or your go-to budget option on Amazon suddenly disappearing—tariffs may be the reason. As global trade tensions rise, the impact is hitting everyday office essentials, especially toner cartridges. Here’s what’s going on, and why American-made alternatives are more relevant than ever.

What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter for Toner?

Tariffs are taxes that governments place on imported goods. Over the past several years, the U.S. has imposed various tariffs on imports from countries like China—home to a large share of the world’s generic toner cartridge manufacturing.

These tariffs, including those under Section 301 of the Trade Act, were implemented to address trade imbalances. However, they’ve significantly affected the cost of imported printer supplies, including many of the cheap toner cartridges sold online through marketplaces like Amazon.

The Impact on Generic Toner Prices

Since many of these low-cost cartridges come from China or similar manufacturing hubs, they are directly subject to U.S. tariffs—often 15–25% or more.

• Prices on generic toner cartridges have climbed sharply.
• Some listings are being removed or going out of stock as sellers struggle with higher costs.
• Others are rebranded or relisted under different seller names to avoid price comparison tools or marketplace scrutiny.

This has created uncertainty and frustration for consumers who previously relied on cheap toner to keep print costs low.

OEM Toner Isn’t Spared Either

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges—those made by HP, Canon, Brother, etc.—aren’t immune to these price pressures. Many of these companies manufacture parts or complete products overseas and are also affected by tariffs.

While big brands have more flexibility in managing supply chains, prices still reflect increasing costs. If you’ve seen an unexpected jump in name-brand toner prices, this is likely part of the reason.

The Case for U.S.-Made Remanufactured Toner

That’s where NorthStar Toner comes in.

We offer a smarter solution—remanufactured toner cartridges that are made in the USA. Here’s what sets us apart:

• No international tariffs—we manufacture domestically, which shields our customers from global price shocks.
• Remanufactured in Illinois, supporting U.S. jobs and reliable, local production.
• Sustainable and eco-friendly—we reuse OEM shells and reduce landfill waste.
• Quality guaranteed—our cartridges are tested to meet or exceed OEM performance standards.

Instead of gambling on low-cost imports that may fluctuate in price or disappear from online marketplaces, our customers enjoy consistent pricing and dependable performance.

Tariffs Are Changing the Toner Landscape

Whether you’re a small business owner, IT manager, school district, or anyone who relies on printers, you’ve likely seen toner costs rise. And the truth is, the “cheap Amazon option” isn’t as cheap—or available—as it used to be.

NorthStar Toner offers an affordable, dependable, and patriotic alternative. You’ll get:

• Predictable pricing
• U.S.-based support
• Cartridges that are good for your bottom line and the planet

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re tired of rising prices and unreliable listings, now is the time to move to U.S.-made remanufactured toner. Browse our selection today to experience the difference for yourself.