THE CHANGING MIRROR MARKET: HOW TRADE DUTIES ARE RESHAPING SUPPLY CHAINS
In a globalized supply chain, international trade regulations can have ripple effects across entire industries. Recently, a significant shift occurred in the glass and mirror sector that directly impacts how design and procurement teams source lighted mirrors for commercial spaces—especially hospitality projects.
What Are Countervailing and Anti-Dumping Duties?
Countries have long relied on trade remedies like countervailing duties (CVDs) and anti-dumping duties (ADDs) to level the playing field when unfair foreign pricing practices disrupt local markets. These duties are imposed when:
Dumping occurs—foreign producers sell goods below fair market value, often undercutting domestic competitors.
Unfair subsidies are provided by foreign governments to artificially lower manufacturing costs.
These protections aim to stabilize domestic industries and ensure fair competition.
You can learn more about how these duties work from the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and U.S. Department of Commerce:
USITC on Import Injury Investigations
U.S. Department of Commerce – Enforcement & Compliance
Vitro Glass’s Petition and the Impact on Mirrors
In early 2024, Vitro Architectural Glass, one of the largest float glass manufacturers in the world with a significant North American presence, filed a petition with the Department of Commerce seeking both countervailing and anti-dumping duties on float glass imported from China and Malaysia.
The Department ruled in favor of this petition, and on May 19, 2025, a countervailing duty of 11.5% was imposed on float glass from these two countries. In addition, anti-dumping duties—expected to exceed 180%—are projected to take effect in July.
What does this mean in practical terms? China will likely become an unviable supplier of lighted mirrors for the U.S. market in the near future. These changes have made sourcing from China and Malaysia significantly more expensive, pushing manufacturers and buyers to seek alternatives.
What is Exempt—and What is Not
Not all mirror products are affected. Specifically:
Non-lit framed mirrors are not subject to these duties.
Small mirrors under 24” x 24”, such as makeup mirrors, are also exempt.
The duties primarily target lighted mirrors made from float glass—products commonly used in hotel guest rooms, bathrooms, and commercial restrooms.
What’s Next: The Rise of Thailand and Domestic Production
Supply chains are already adapting. We expect to see:
A surge in lighted mirror production out of Thailand, which is currently not subject to these trade restrictions.
Increased domestic manufacturing as U.S.-based firms ramp up operations to meet demand.
At Source, we’re actively supporting our partners through this transition. Our marketplace remains focused on reliable, transparent sourcing for FF&E and OS&E—helping owners and operators avoid delays and cost escalations.
How Source Can Help
We monitor market and regulatory changes so you don’t have to. Whether you’re procuring for a luxury renovation or developing a new property, Source ensures that your mirror packages are:
Compliant with evolving trade regulations
Cost-effective and lead-time-optimized
Sourced through vetted vendors both globally and domestically
Have questions about how this affects your project pipeline? Our team is here to help you navigate your next specification with confidence.