Starting May 2, ordering affordable fashion, gadgets, or lifestyle goods from the Chinese mainland or Hong Kong just got trickier. The U.S. scrapped its duty-free rule for packages under $800, a policy that once let millions of products bypass tariffs. 💸 Now, import fees could inflate prices for everything from TikTok-viral phone cases to small-business supplies. “This is a gut punch to budget-conscious shoppers,” one user commented, while sellers warned the change might force them to hike prices or cut jobs.
Why It Matters
🛒 Online shoppers and indie retailers are bracing for higher costs, especially for cross-border e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein. Analysts say the shift could reshape how global shoppers interact with Asian markets, emphasizing the delicate balance between trade policies and everyday affordability. Small businesses reliant on quick, affordable sourcing are sounding the alarm on social media. 📦 “This isn’t just about taxes—it’s about accessibility,” wrote a TikTok creator with 500K followers.
