Prices for consumer electronics imported from China are rising for both individuals and businesses due to Trump’s 10% import tariffs being implemented. Furthermore, the elimination of a small-value exemption on current tariffs has resulted in import taxes soaring up to 45% on certain products.
In addition, courier companies are introducing their own collection fees on top of the tariffs, further increasing overall costs. Some companies are temporarily halting imports while determining the best course of action.
This week marks the beginning of a 10% import duty on the value of all products sourced from China. Trump has also removed a previous exemption on duties for shipments valued below $800. Consequently, consumers are facing taxes on even the smallest purchases, sometimes outpacing the original cost of the items.
This situation affects both consumers purchasing items directly from China and businesses like Apple that manufacture their products there. Unlike previous instances where taxes were targeted at specific categories and Apple secured exemptions, the new tariffs are now applied universally across the board.
Wired notes that consumers have started receiving notifications from courier services informing them that their packages cannot be delivered until outstanding tariffs and administrative fees are paid.
Within the past day, US consumers have reported receiving messages from UPS and DHL indicating they owe amounts ranging from $20 to over $50. […] DHL, UPS, and Amazon did not respond to WIRED’s inquiry for comments. A representative for FedEx stated the company is working to assist customers in navigating what they refer to as “substantial changes resulting from the recent tariff announcements.”
Small businesses are also facing challenges, with keyboard manufacturer Qwertykeys informing The Verge of its decision to suspend US sales for the time being.
The keyboard manufacturer Qwertykeys has temporarily halted all shipments to the United States in response to President Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports coming into effect. The company stated they are exploring options to reduce shipping costs, noting that “all keyboards from China to the U.S. are now subject to 45% tariffs at full value.”
Moreover, Apple may also find itself entangled in China’s retaliatory actions against US companies.
Photo by qiwei yang on Unsplash
: . More.
