How Global Tariffs Are Changing the Way We Shop Online

On April 8, 2025, the U.S. government officially announced a new wave of tariffs targeting imports from several countries, including Japan, China, and the European Union. What started as a temporary 10% base tariff during a 90-day buffer period is expected to escalate up to 24% if no new trade deals are finalized.

This impacts not only direct imports but also international supply chains—and ultimately, your online shopping.

Important Note

🔍 This is not an economic or political analysis. This is practical guidance for everyday online shoppers who want to make smart choices

⚠️ Why It Affects You—Even if You Don’t Buy from Japan

Raw materials like steel and semiconductors will become more expensive.
Many “Made in USA” products still include imported parts—so they’ll rise in price too.
Indirect costs (transport, logistics, packaging) are also rising.

🧪 Real-World Example: Laptops Made in the USA

A laptop labeled “Made in USA” might actually include:

🔧 25% components made in China
🧩 40% imported parts from Taiwan or South Korea
🇺🇸 35% final assembly and testing in the USA

💡 Even “local” products are globally dependent.

💥 How High Are the Tariffs Now?

Products Made in China face tariffs from 25% to 100%, regardless of brand.
Even American companies like Apple (iPhone), HP, or Dell that manufacture in China are affected.

✈️ Why Traveling to Shop is Not Cheaper Anymore

In the past, many buyers traveled to Miami, Los Angeles, or New York to access cheaper electronics or cosmetics. Today:

🇪🇺 European countries haven’t raised tariffs yet—but prices may rise due to indirect costs.
🇺🇸 U.S. prices are increasing due to imported materials and inflation.
✈️ Travel costs, inspection controls, and taxes reduce the benefits of buying abroad.

🔍 What to Watch For as a Smart Shopper

Before you buy, check:

✅ Is the product truly Made in Japan or Made in China?
✅ Does the seller ship from the country of origin or from stock in the U.S.?
✅ Are you buying now to save before price increases take effect?

🧠 Conclusion

Global trade is changing. Shoppers must stay informed.

Know your sources. Understand supply chains. Anticipate cost increases—even for familiar brands.

Stay smart. Read labels. Shop informed.

U.S. Suspends “De Minimis” Duty-Free Treatment for Low-Value Shipments (Update 2025)

Status: In effect as of August 29, 2025. Executive order signed on July 30, 2025.

What changed?

Removal of the de minimis exemption (≤ US$800) for all countries.
Non-postal shipments (courier/express): subject to all duties, taxes, and fees; must be declared in the ACE system by an authorized filer.
Postal shipments (mail): subject to ad valorem duties and a temporary specific fee:
- Ad valorem duties based on product classification and value.
- Temporary specific fee: US$80–US$200 per package (applies until Feb 28, 2026); afterwards, only ad valorem duties apply.
Limited exemptions: certain donations and informational materials under 50 U.S.C. 1702(b) remain duty-free.

Impact on e-commerce & affiliate sellers

Higher landed costs for low-ticket items and increased entry friction (documentation, processing time).
Shift toward express courier channels (DHL, FedEx) and consolidators that file via ACE.
Temporary postal surcharges and operational updates from logistics providers as systems adapt.

Quick checklist (what to do now)

Classify products with correct HS codes and confirm the real country of origin.
Run cost simulations including ad valorem duties and the temporary US$80–200 fee for typical orders.
Choose the channel: postal (subject to specific fee) vs. courier with ACE entry.
Adjust pricing and offer DDP or clear messaging about taxes & duties to buyers.
Coordinate with your 3PL/forwarder on collection and remittance of duties.