
Trump Ends De Minimis Trade Exemption for China, Impacting Shein and Temu
President Donald Trump has announced the termination of the de minimis trade exemption for shipments from China, a move that directly affects popular online retailers Shein and Temu. This decision, effective immediately, eliminates the duty-free threshold for low-value imports from China, which was previously set at $800. The policy change is part of a broader effort to address trade imbalances and curb the influx of synthetic opioids into the U.S.
The de minimis exemption allowed goods valued below a certain amount to enter the country without tariffs or extensive customs checks. Trump's administration argues that this loophole has been exploited, particularly by companies like Shein and Temu, which have relied heavily on this exemption to offer competitive pricing on their products. The move has sparked concerns among consumers and businesses about potential price increases and delays in shipping.
This policy shift comes amidst ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, with the White House also announcing further amendments to duties aimed at disrupting the synthetic opioid supply chain from China. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the move as a necessary step to protect American industries and others criticizing it as a blow to consumer choice and international trade relations.