Trump's Policy Change Leaves U.S. Online Shoppers Bewildered, Shipping Fees Soar
President Trump's recent policy change has left online shoppers in the U.S. bewildered. The end of the de minimis exemption for goods from China and Hong Kong, effective July 2025, has led to widespread confusion and soaring shipping fees for international purchases. Previously, goods valued under $800 were exempt from customs duties and import taxes. Now, even cheap items are subject to these charges. This has hit online shoppers, particularly those buying affordable goods from abroad, the hardest. For instance, a camera lens from Japan, priced around $320, now comes with a staggering $2,000 delivery fee to the U.S., compared to the previous $29 global shipping cost. The change has caused chaos in international shipping. Post offices have temporarily suspended e-commerce shipments while systems are updated. Shipping companies like FedEx are grappling with the new rules and customer confusion. Meanwhile, some retailers are exploiting the situation by charging exorbitant shipping fees to deter U.S. purchases. This is evident on platforms like eBay, where prices have skyrocketed. The new tariffs and import taxes, coupled with the end of the de minimis exemption, have significantly impacted international online shopping in the U.S. While the policy aims to protect domestic industries, it has caused widespread confusion and increased costs for consumers. The situation is likely to remain uncertain until shipping companies and retailers adjust to the new rules.
