New tariffs are now hitting cheap US imports from China

is a news writer fond of the electric vehicle lifestyle and things that plug in via USB-C. He spent over 15 years in IT support before joining The Verge. The de minimis exception, which has allowed businesses to import low-value goods without duties from China and Hong Kong, has expired as of 12:01AM ET today as part of President Trump’s executive order signed last month. Many businesses in the US rely on the de minimis loophole. Any package valued under $800 — including electronics, toys, and clothing from companies like Shein — can come to the US duty-free under the exception, leaving the products supercheap for buyers. In 2024, about 1.4 billion packages entering the US claimed exemption from duties under de minimis. Retailers Shein and Temu have already raised prices to account for tariffs. The Trump Administration’s new rules will add either a 30 percent fee to the value of every package shipped to the US, or $25 (with an increase to $50 starting June 1st) — a choice every post ... Read full article.