Target: Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce
Goal: Restore tariff exemption for low-cost goods shipped to millions of Americans.
A tax exemption that enabled Americans to buy low-cost goods from importers was recently closed as part of the administration’s ongoing trade war. Consumers are already feeling the effects with popular retailers Temu and Shein. Both companies have raised prices, sometimes to double the level of previous costs.
The changes resulted after the administration announced it was doing away with the “de minimis” tariff exemption. This exemption granted financial relief to companies exporting cheaper products of less than $800 in value. Since the exemption was lifted, Chinese goods are now subject to a 54 percent tariff to be primarily paid by shipping importers. That number could rise to 120 percent if the temporary trade truce between the United States and China ends without a longer-term deal in place. Companies are now either finding a way to avert the regulation or are passing on the cost to consumers.
The lifting of this exemption is expected to spread to other nations as well, impacting the accessibility of goods around the world. Sign the petition below to demand leaders rethink a policy decision that will have the most detrimental effect on average American consumers.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Secretary Lutnick,
The closing of the “de minimis” tariff exemption feels more like political theater than a sincere effort that will benefit Americans. This exemption helps Americans not blessed with an exorbitantly high income to purchase the goods they want at an affordable price. Its conclusion has already led to higher prices for these consumers. American small businesses who cannot “eat” the strain and pain are suffering as well.
Companies will either find a workaround or continue passing on costs to their customers. Advocate for an end to a needless dictate that is harming, not helping, Americans.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Cottonbro Studio
