Avoid India's Tariffs on Pre-Rolled Cones with Custom Cones USA

As President Donald Trump ramps up tariffs on America’s trading partners, industries nationwide are feeling the strain—and cannabis is no exception.

The pre-roll sector, with its tight margins, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of these new tariffs, which is why Custom Cones USA has been taking action to ensure that your pre-roll production line is affected as little as possible.

India Tariffs Double: Why Pre-Rolls Are at Risk

The latest challenge comes from a steep tariff increase on goods from India, which jumped from 25% to 50%. For the pre-roll market, this is a serious concern. Why? Because nearly every pre-rolled cone used across U.S. cannabis markets is sourced from just three countries: India, Indonesia and China.

At a 25% rate, many suppliers were able to absorb the added costs. But at 50%, that’s simply not do-able. Pre-rolls are one of the most price-sensitive product categories in cannabis, which means this hike will likely force companies to either pay more and pass the costs on to their customers, endure longer lead times by moving orders to new regions, or cut corners by lowering the quality of flower in their products.

None of those outcomes are good for pre-roll brands—or the customers who rely on them.

Supply Chain Disruptions Loom

But the impact won’t stop there. A slowdown in shipments from Indian ports could trigger shortages of popular cone sizes and paper styles, leaving some manufacturers scrambling to adjust their product lines at the worst possible time.

This will affect not only the pre-rolled cones being packed, but the packaging and machines used to pack them and get them onto shelves as well.

How Custom Cones USA Is Protecting Customers

At Custom Cones USA, we saw this coming and worked to protect our customers, both long term and new, from the full effects of these new tariffs.

First, we do not source our cones from India. Our pre-rolled cones facilities are located in Indonesia, outside the purview of these latest tariffs.

Additionally, we’ve spent much of this year stocking up inventory in our U.S.-based warehouse. By planning ahead, we’ve worked to build the stock necessary to shield customers from these disruptions and keep their businesses running smoothly, even as tariffs rise and global supply chains shift.

And because they ship from our warehouse just outside Seattle, they are not subjected to price increases.

Q4 Is Too Important to Risk

This foresight is especially valuable as we head into Q4, the busiest time of year for cannabis sales.

Pre-roll demand spikes during Halloween parties, Green Wednesday (the industry’s second-busiest sales day after 4/20), Black Friday, and of course the holiday season. With their convenience and shareability, pre-rolls consistently drive sales and foot traffic during these key retail moments.

Making sure our pre-rolled cone supplies are fully stocked means our customers can seize these opportunities and finish the year strong without worrying about delays, shortages or increased Q4 costs that can trip up budget projections.

Diversifying Supply Chains Is No Longer Optional

Overall, the lesson is clear: in a global market where policies and supply chains can shift overnight, the right supplier makes all the difference.

At Custom Cones USA, we don’t just sell cones, we're a partner that is just as invested as you are in keeping your pre-roll business healthy.

Secure Your Supply Today

If you’re concerned about tariffs, supply chain disruptions, or keeping your shelves stocked during the holiday rush, now is the time to act. Contact the Pre-Roll Experts today to secure U.S.-stocked cones, custom packaging and the industry expertise you need to stay ahead of the curve.

Don’t let tariffs slow down your growth. Partner with Custom Cones USA and keep your pre-roll business rolling—no matter what.