The cost of consumer electronics imported from China is rising for both individuals and businesses, following the implementation of Trump’s 10% import tariffs. Furthermore, the removal of a minor-value exemption on current tariffs has resulted in some products facing import taxes of up to 45%.
Courier services are imposing their own collection fees in addition to the tariffs, leading to higher overall costs. Some companies are even suspending imports while they assess the situation.
This week marks the start of a 10% import duty on all products coming from China. The elimination of the longstanding exemption for shipments valued under $800 means taxes and fees are now applicable even to the smallest purchases, sometimes surpassing the original price of the items.
This impacts both consumers purchasing directly from China and corporations like Apple that manufacture their products there. Unlike previous instances where tariffs targeted specific categories—allowing Apple to advocate for exemptions—these new tariffs are applicable universally.
Wired has reported that consumers are receiving notices from courier companies, indicating that their parcels cannot be delivered until the applicable tariffs and administrative fees are paid.
In the last day, US consumers have reported notices from UPS and DHL indicating they owe amounts ranging from $20 to over $50 […] DHL, UPS, and Amazon have not responded to WIRED’s inquiries. A representative from FedEx stated that the company is assisting their customers in adapting to what they described as “significant changes resulting from the new tariff announcements.”
Small businesses are also facing difficulties in adjusting, with keyboard manufacturer Qwertykeys informing The Verge that it has temporarily suspended sales to the US.
The keyboard manufacturer Qwertykeys has halted all shipments to the United States in light of President Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports. The company is working on strategies to reduce shipping expenses, noting that “all keyboards imported from China to the U.S. are now subject to tariffs of 45% on their full value.”
Additionally, Apple may find itself embroiled in retaliatory actions by China against American enterprises.
Photo by qiwei yang on Unsplash
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