U.S. Ends Duty-Free Imports, Sparks Supply Chain Disruptions

The Trump administration's recent decision to end duty-free treatment for low-value imports from China and impose broad reciprocal tariffs is causing significant disruptions across U.S. supply chains, driving up costs for both businesses and consumers. Retailers and e-commerce platforms are being forced to restructure supply chains, raise prices, and, in some cases, suspend shipments or exit the U.S. market entirely. American consumers are already experiencing steep price hikes—festive goods, clothing, and footwear prices have reportedly doubled or more, and supply bottlenecks are delaying shipments. Major U.S. companies, including Apple and GM, warn of billions in added costs and supply chain pressures, while industry groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America caution these tariffs could irreparably harm small businesses and threaten industry survival. Additionally, tariffs on pharmaceuticals could boost drug costs by billions, further straining Americans. Polls indicate most Americans expect higher prices as a result of these policies.