What could possibly be scarier than Ghostface?
According to Fun World CEO Alan Geller, it might be U.S. trade policy. In a recent report by News 12 Long Island, the company behind the Scream franchise’s most recognizable symbol—the Ghostface mask—sounded the alarm: sudden tariff increases on imports from China could severely damage their business.
“If the sudden and extreme tariff from China does not reverse—sadly to say—I may close the doors permanently,” Geller told News 12.
A Frightening Forecast for Halloween
Based in Carle Place, New York, Fun World has spent the past six decades supplying Halloween costumes, decorations, and seasonal merchandise to retailers across the country. This year, they face a chilling prospect: 145% increases in shipping costs on containers of goods imported from China.
“Merchandise is coming, and we have to pay for every container 145% more than what we planned to pay for,” said Phil Talio, product manager at Fun World.
With Halloween six months away, Geller and his team were expecting a banner year. Now, they’re warning that costumes and masks—including the official Scream and Ghost Face merchandise—could become significantly more expensive and harder to find.
“This year was supposed to be a beautiful Halloween,” Geller said. “And now? I think it will not be so nice.”
Retailers are already scaling back orders, choosing to buy fewer units at higher prices, which may leave shelves sparse this October.
R.J. Torbert: “A Tax on the Consumer”
R.J. Torbert, Fun World’s longtime Director of Licensing and the man behind the Ghostface name, and brand enforcement spoke exclusively and gave his first public comments on this with HelloSidney.com to clarify the purpose behind the press outreach.
“The purpose of the press conference was to bring attention to the country and the politicians how serious the repercussions can be if a tariff roll-out is not well thought out over the course of time,” Torbert said.
“Flipping a switch and saying ‘145% tariff starting at midnight tonight’ is reckless, does more harm than good, and not only threatens the toy companies (and other U.S. companies as well), but would also be a heavy burden on the consumer—in essence a tax to absorb part of the extra costs.”
“Fun World has always been a very strong company in part because of the team of associates here, and all of us will work diligently to get through these challenging times. I’m very confident we will,” Torbert added. “In regard to Ghost Face—he lives forever”
What This Means for Fans & Collectors
As of May 17, 2025, the United States has implemented a temporary reduction in tariffs on Chinese imports, lowering the rate from 145% to 30% for a 90-day period. This adjustment follows recent trade negotiations aimed at easing tensions between the two nations. While this reduction offers short-term relief to importers like Fun World, the company behind the iconic Ghostface mask, the situation remains fluid.
While the Scream community may not immediately feel the impact, the long-term effects could be devastating for collectors, retailers, and fans.
Whether you’re a longtime collector, a Halloween retailer, or just someone hoping to snag a Ghostface mask this October, the situation could affect you directly. With fewer products shipping and prices rising, the future of Halloween—and the legacy of Scream merchandise—hangs in the balance.
Let’s hope that this real-life horror story has a better ending.
