US Raises Tariffs on Chinese Small Parcels to 90% Amid Trade War

The United States, under President Donald Trump, has escalated trade tensions with China by significantly increasing tariffs on small parcels valued under $800. This move follows China's retaliatory increase of tariffs on US goods.Effective May 2, 2025, goods from mainland China and Hong Kong will face increased duties. Shipments will be subject to either a 90% tax or a minimum $75 duty per item. This per-item duty is set to increase to $150 after June 1, 2025.This adjustment marks a sharp increase from the previously announced tariffs. The initial plan, revealed in early April 2025, involved a 30% duty or a $25 per item fee, which would then rise to $50 per item in June. The de minimis rule, which previously allowed goods under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free, has been revoked for China and Hong Kong.These measures are expected to heavily impact Chinese e-commerce retailers that rely on low-value, high-frequency shipments to the U.S.