In the world of ammunition imports, not all brands are treated equally. Among the many names in the game, PMC (Precision Made Cartridges) and Igman stand out — not just for their widespread use, but also for facing some of the highest import tariffs in the industry. But why do these two companies get hit the hardest?
The answer lies primarily in the country of origin and trade policy.
PMC is manufactured in South Korea, a country with strong trade ties to the U.S., but not one covered under any special ammunition-specific tariff exclusions. While the U.S. has a free trade agreement (KORUS) with South Korea, ammunition isn’t always exempt from broader protective duties or specific regulatory restrictions. The tariffs on South Korean-made ammo are part of broader measures to protect U.S. ammunition manufacturers and to regulate surplus foreign ammo from overwhelming the domestic market.
Igman, on the other hand, is produced in Bosnia and Herzegovina — a nation without a free trade agreement with the U.S. As a result, Igman ammo can face “Generalized System of Preferences” exclusions, which often place their imports into the highest tariff category. This puts Igman at a major disadvantage compared to other brands imported from countries with more favorable trade status.
Additionally, as global demand for ammunition has surged in recent years, the U.S. has implemented tariff structures that are both protective and politically driven. This often means countries not closely aligned with U.S. trade policy (or not part of certain defense partnerships) are penalized with higher duties.
For American consumers, this translates to higher prices on PMC and Igman ammo — despite their reputation for quality and reliability. While both brands continue to have a loyal customer base, the tariff pressure means distributors and retailers must price accordingly, and some buyers are forced to explore alternatives.
Until trade policy changes or exemptions are introduced, PMC and Igman will remain on the higher end of the price spectrum — not because of quality issues, but because of where they’re made.
1. Country of Origin Matters
PMC is produced in South Korea, while Igman is manufactured in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The U.S. imposes varying tariff rates depending on trade agreements (or the lack thereof) with each exporting country. Unlike NATO allies with favorable trade deals or developing nations under preferential programs, countries like South Korea and Bosnia often fall under “Most Favored Nation” (MFN) tariff schedules—meaning they’re subject to standard, and sometimes steep, import duties.
2. No Free Trade Agreements in Place
The U.S. has no specific Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Bosnia and only a limited one with South Korea that doesn’t fully cover ammunition imports. This means PMC and Igman don’t benefit from reduced or duty-free rates like some competitors from countries with more comprehensive FTAs.
3. High Demand, Low Domestic Production
Ironically, the popularity of PMC and Igman also plays a role. Since these brands fill significant supply gaps in the U.S. market—especially during periods of high domestic demand—the government often applies tariffs to protect domestic manufacturers and stabilize supply chains, making it more costly for foreign brands to dominate.
4. Geopolitical Factors
Bosnia and South Korea both operate in geopolitically sensitive regions, which can lead to increased scrutiny and tighter restrictions. In some cases, these concerns translate into higher tariffs and import duties, especially on items like ammunition that can have strategic implications.
PMC and Igman offer quality ammo, but their foreign origins and lack of favorable trade agreements mean they get hit harder with tariffs than many competitors. For consumers, this can result in slightly higher prices at the shelf—but it also reflects the complex web of global trade that underpins even a single box of rounds.
