Hey e-comm hustlers and side-giggers! 😎 Big update from the U.S.: an executive order signed on July 30 by U.S. President Donald Trump ends the $800 de minimis duty exemption starting August 29. 📦💸
What’s the de minimis exemption? It’s a rule that lets low-value packages (under $800) enter the U.S. without extra import duties. Now, all parcels, whether you’re shipping custom tees from India, phone accessories from the Chinese mainland, or handmade crafts from Vietnam, will be hit with all applicable duties.
Why it matters: Many small businesses rely on affordable cross-border shipping to keep prices competitive. With new duties on every order, costs could spike, margins shrink, and some sellers might rethink their U.S. market plans. 😬
Small biz owners are already sounding the alarm, warning that sourcing products from overseas will get pricier and more uncertain. If you’re running a Shopify store or offering drop-shipping services, now’s the time to recalculate your costs, adjust prices, and explore local suppliers.
Here’s a quick checklist to stay ahead:
- Re-model your pricing based on new duty costs
- Negotiate with suppliers or find regional alternatives 🌏
- Update shipping policies and inform customers
- Monitor tariff rates—changes could vary by product
Whether you’re shipping from Bangalore, Jakarta, or Ho Chi Minh City, this policy shift is a major shakeup. Stay agile, keep your community in the loop, and turn challenges into new growth chances! 🚀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
