U.S. revokes duty-free status for cheap China goods used by Shein, Temu

30% duty rate for packages valued at $800 or less, or $25 per item

A United States Postal Service worker in New York. Retail packages shipped to the U.S. worth $800 or less from overseas will no longer be duty free. © Reuters

PAK YIU

April 3, 2025 08:40 JST

NEW YORK -- The United States will end tariff exemptions for low-cost shipments from China and Hong Kong on May 2, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, taking aim at the de minimis policy that has become popular among e-commerce companies.

The decision was part of a package of trade policy changes including sweeping tariffs of up to 49% on trade partners the Trump administration accuses of "unfair trade practices." The broad moves are expected to escalate a trade war and reshaping global commerce.