New 120% tariffs on small packages from the Chinese mainland to the US came into force Friday, marking the end of duty-free exemptions for low-value imports under the "de minimis" rule. Analysts warn the policy shift could inflate costs for American consumers and disrupt cross-border e-commerce networks that many small US businesses rely on.
The US Chamber of Commerce cautions the tariffs may lead to "irreversible harm" to domestic enterprises, particularly online sellers sourcing affordable goods like electronics and textiles. Delivery times are also expected to lengthen as customs procedures intensify.
"This isn\u2019t just about higher prices\u2014it\u2019s about supply chain reliability," said a Chamber representative, noting the policy could accelerate efforts to diversify sourcing away from Asia. However, experts suggest emerging markets like Vietnam and India might benefit as regional trade dynamics evolve.
The move underscores escalating US-China trade friction, with Washington framing it as a measure to address unfair competition. Meanwhile, consumer advocates report preemptive price hikes by US retailers, signaling immediate economic ripple effects.
