New U.S. Tariffs Shake the Global Horse Trade Market

The global market for live horse exports to the United States has entered a new phase in 2025, following the implementation of tariffs introduced during Donald Trump’s administration. While the horse industry is often associated with prestige, luxury, and sports excellence, it is now facing a less glamorous reality: rising costs and complex trade dynamics.

In 2024, the United States imported $817 million worth of horses, ranking 424th out of 1,227 imported products.

The leading suppliers were:

• Germany – $267M

• Ireland – $123M

• United Kingdom – $99.5M

• Netherlands – $98.7M

• Belgium – $77M

  
  

The fastest-growing suppliers between 2023 and 2024 were:

• Germany – +$40.5M

• Ireland – +$19.7M

• United Kingdom – +$13.1M

  
  

Tariffs by Country

Under the new tariff structure:

• Germany and Ireland face a 15% tariff.

• United Kingdom horses face a 10% tariff.

• Mexico and Canada are subject to a 25% tariff.

  
  

These increases are expected to significantly impact the final price of horses in the U.S. market, potentially altering competition and buyer preferences.

A Market Already in Deficit

Before these tariffs, the U.S. was already operating at a trade deficit of around 30% in the horse sector. For example, in May 2025, the country exported $14M and imported $35M worth of horses, resulting in a negative trade balance of $21.1M.

Compared to April 2025, U.S. exports fell by $12.8M (-47.8%), while imports surged by $17.6M (+101%).

This imbalance shows that the U.S. already imports significantly more horses than it exports, meaning that increased tariffs will likely have a ripple effect on both importers and domestic buyers.

Global Impact

The tariffs affect all exporting countries, not just those with the highest market share. Smaller exporters may find themselves priced out of the market, while larger suppliers like Germany, Ireland, and the UK will have to adjust pricing strategies and logistics to maintain competitiveness.

Meanwhile, U.S. buyers—ranging from racing stables to breeding farms—will face higher acquisition costs, which could slow down transaction volumes in the short term.

Looking Ahead

With tariffs in place, the horse trade market may see a realignment of suppliers, more negotiations for bilateral trade agreements, and possible diversification by U.S. buyers toward untariffed origins.

However, given the prestige and performance lineage associated with horses from Germany, Ireland, and the UK, demand may remain resilient—though at a higher price point.

For exporters, understanding this new tariff landscape will be critical to navigating the U.S. market in the years ahead.