U.S. Imposes Tariffs on Clothing and Shoes from China and Vietnam

The United States has recently announced new tariffs on clothing and shoes imported from China and Vietnam, a move that has sparked significant reactions from both the retail sector and international trade partners. The tariffs, aimed at addressing trade imbalances and protecting domestic industries, are set to impact major brands like Gap, Nike, and Levi's, causing fluctuations in their stock prices.

Retail giants have expressed concerns over the potential increase in costs, which could be passed on to consumers, affecting sales and market dynamics. The decision has also drawn criticism from Vietnam, with the country's foreign ministry expressing regret over the U.S. tariff imposition, highlighting the potential strain on bilateral trade relations.

Analysts suggest that these tariffs could lead to a shift in sourcing strategies among U.S. companies, possibly encouraging them to explore alternative manufacturing bases to mitigate the financial impact. The move is part of a broader U.S. strategy to recalibrate its trade policies with key global players, reflecting ongoing tensions in international trade.

• China
• Gap
• Nike
• Vietnam

Detailed

Tariffs will make sneakers, jeans and almost everything Americans wear cost more, trade groups warn

4 days ago

- apnews

Sports shoes’ supply chain is pain point in Trump’s tariff war

4 days ago

- ft

What Trump tariffs mean to Nike's Air Jordan 1s

5 days ago

- bbc

Gap, Nike and Levi’s took years to diversify from China. Now sky high tariffs on nations like Vietnam are ruining plans and tanking their stocks

6 days ago

- fortune

Related issues news

How much is the tariff on Vietnam?

The 46 percent tariff rate on Vietnam is among the highest placed on any country, and in Southeast Asia alone, it is only lower than that imposed on Laos and Cambodia, which are subject to rates of 48 and 49 percent, respectively.

Did Vietnam get tariffs?

Vietnam, slapped with 46% tariffs, called for talks with Washington in order to reconsider 'unfair' U.S. duties and Thailand's prime minister said she would pursue negotiations to try to reduce the 37% rate her country faces - far greater than the 11% it had expected.

What are these tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes charged on goods imported from other countries. Typically, they are a percentage of a product's value. For example, a 25% tariff on a $10 (£7.59) product would mean an additional $2.50 (£1.90) charge. Companies that bring the foreign goods into the country have to pay the tax to the government.

Are clothing prices going up?

The cost of apparel in the U.S. has increased 3.8% in the past 3 years (Feb 2022 to Feb 2025), according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In February, the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for clothing increased a modest 0.6% month-over-month, following a decline of 1.4% in January.