Starting Friday, the U.S. is ending the “de minimis” tariff exemption for low-value packages ($800 or less) from China and Hong Kong, a move initiated by former President Trump to close what he called a major trade loophole. The change imposes new tariffs—starting at $100 per package and rising to $200 in June—impacting e-commerce giants like Temu and Shein, which are now raising prices or shifting to U.S.-based fulfilment models to avoid the duties. The policy, meant to protect U.S. small businesses and reduce illicit imports, could significantly reshape online shopping habits and consumer costs in the U.S.
