The Biden administration is set to overhaul US trade regulations with a new rule that seeks to close the “de minimis” exemption loophole, which currently allows low-value imports to bypass tariffs.
Announced on Friday, this policy shift aims to impose tariffs on imports that fall under Sections 201 or 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.
The rule specifically targets Chinese e-commerce giants like Temu and Shein, who have exploited this exemption to flood the US market with inexpensive goods, potentially reshaping US-China trade dynamics.
Under the existing “de minimis” rule, shipments valued at $800 or less are exempt from tariffs.
This loophole has enabled numerous Chinese companies to send low-cost products to the US without incurring import taxes.
The White House reports a dramatic increase in these shipments from 140 million to over 1 billion annually.
The proposed rule aims to close this gap by applying tariffs to all imports covered under specific trade sections, thereby reducing Chinese companies’ ability to exploit this exemption.
Focus on Temu, Shein, and other e-commerce giants
The new rule is expected to have a significant impact on Chinese e-commerce companies such as Temu and Shein.
These firms have utilized the de minimis exemption to offer ultra-cheap products, particularly in clothing and textiles, which has allowed them to gain substantial market share.
With the removal of the tariff exemption, these companies may face higher costs and less competitive pricing compared to domestic alternatives.
This move is part of a broader strategy by the US to reduce economic reliance on China, especially in strategic sectors like electric vehicles and advanced technology.
The Biden administration’s focus on limiting Chinese imports is designed to protect emerging US industries from foreign competition.
However, this policy shift could further strain relations between the two largest economies in the world.
The proposed rule also introduces stricter standards for de minimis shipments, including a requirement for a 10-digit tariff classification number and detailed information about the person claiming the exemption.
These measures are intended to increase transparency and assist customs enforcement in preventing fraudulent declarations.
Concerns over illegal imports
Another key driver behind the rule change is the challenge of blocking illegal imports, such as fentanyl and synthetic drugs, under the current exemption.
The Biden administration argues that the de minimis rule has facilitated the entry of these substances into the US, posing a serious public health threat.
Tightening the exemption criteria is expected to bolster controls and help curb the influx of illegal drugs.
Section 301 tariffs and trade disruptions
Currently, Section 301 tariffs already cover approximately 40% of US imports from China, including 70% of textile and apparel products.
Extending these tariffs to low-value goods could further disrupt trade flows and compel Chinese exporters to adjust their strategies.
The loss of the de minimis exemption may significantly impact Chinese manufacturers who rely on low-cost exports, potentially leading to increased operational costs and adjustments in their business models.
The proposed rule underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to addressing perceived imbalances in the US-China trade relationship, with potential long-term effects on both markets.
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