The extensive tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on imports from China are impacting a wide range of consumer goods, including electronics, automobiles, and clothing. Among the most affected sectors are low-cost e-commerce platforms like Shein, Temu, and AliExpress, which have become popular among American consumers. The situation is already leading to significant price increases.
Recently, both Shein and Temu informed customers of upcoming price hikes effective April 25th. A review of Shein’s pricing reveals slight increases across various categories, with some items showing more significant adjustments. For example, a pair of children’s fleece pants priced at $8.29 on April 17 is now listed at $10.19. Similarly, a women’s plus-size dress saw its price rise from $22.39 to $27.51. Changes in Shein’s inventory and pricing occur frequently, making it difficult to determine the specific reasons for price fluctuations. Many shoppers on Reddit have expressed concerns over rising prices, with reports of some items doubling in cost. Data from Bright Data indicates that price increases on Shein were relatively modest up until early March, with many products remaining unchanged during that period. As prices rise, confusion abounds among customers on the Shein subreddit regarding potential hidden costs and the future of their shopping habits.
One user shared their concerns, stating, “Bye Shein time to buy somewhere else,” alongside a screenshot showing three items totaling $74.
While detailed historical data for Temu is not readily available, users are also reporting noticeable price increases on that platform.
According to a notice on the Shein website, the impact of tariffs is reflected in the prices listed to consumers. A pop-up message indicates that “Tariffs are included in the price you pay,” assuring shoppers that they will not encounter additional fees upon delivery. The current tariff on Chinese imports stands at 145 percent, excluding additional taxes that will take effect on May 2nd. After this date, packages valued under $800, which previously entered the U.S. duty-free, will face new taxes set at either a $100 flat rate or 120 percent of the total package value. It remains unclear whether the current price hikes on Shein are in response to these forthcoming tariffs, as the company has not responded to inquiries.
An order of three items totaling $172.45 would incur $282.69 worth of tariffs.
On AliExpress, the disclosure of tariffs is more explicit, with listings for various items, including clothing, accessories, and tech gadgets, highlighting “import charges and other taxes” beneath their prices. Tariff rates can vary significantly; for example, a pair of sneakers priced at $160 carries an import charge of $260.80. Some items shipped directly from AliExpress do not display these import taxes, likely due to their origin from domestic warehouses. For instance, an order totaling $172.45 from global sellers could result in $282.69 in tariffs, as indicated during the AliExpress checkout.
The AliExpress subreddit is similarly filled with posts from users sharing screenshots detailing the taxes applicable to their orders. These tariffs are poised to affect U.S.-based businesses that import components for domestic assembly. Some AliExpress users have reported difficulties in sourcing supplies for their small businesses due to rising costs.
Small business owners have been vocal in their opposition to the increased taxes on imports. Recently, several tabletop game companies filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming the tariffs are “unlawful and unconstitutional.” For years, Trump has inaccurately asserted that exporting nations pay tariffs; economists and business leaders have consistently warned that the burden of import duties is ultimately transferred to consumers.
