Millions of Americans who rely on cheap Chinese products from websites like Temu and Shein are now facing higher prices due to a trade war between the US and China. The tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have led to significant price increases for many items, including lawn chairs, swimsuits, and household goods.
According to a congressional report, Chinese exports of low-value packages skyrocketed from $5.3 billion in 2018 to $66 billion in 2023. However, the tariffs have made these products unaffordable for many Americans.
For retired registered nurse Rena Scott, buying from Temu is no longer a “no-brainer” due to the price increases. She had bought almost anything she could think of from the website and was stocking up on essentials like paper products, kitchen tools, and furniture. However, with the tariffs in effect, items like her $56 cabinet are now over $80.
Lower-income households will suffer the most from the end of cheap Chinese e-commerce sites. Research shows that 48% of de minimis packages shipped to poor zip codes were delivered to these areas, highlighting the impact on those who can least afford it.
Consumer rights writer Phillip Dampier has been buying everything he needs from Chinese websites for months, stockpiling items like paper products and furniture. He believes the economy is about to go into a tailspin and that shortages will rival the pandemic.
The Trump administration maintains that the tariffs are designed to put American manufacturing and businesses first. However, many US consumers expressed skepticism, saying they are being bullied by the tariff policy and bearing the cost.
With prices rising, Americans are forced to re-evaluate their shopping habits, leaving them wondering if buying from domestic stores is a viable alternative. As one consumer said, “Whether I go to my local Walmart and buy it… that product was still manufactured overseas.”
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/30/business/temu-shein-tariffs-import-charges