US-China trade war: Temu slaps ‘import charges’ on Chinese goods

Following US President Donald Trump's tariffs announcement, the Chinese online retailer Temu is slapping 145% import charges on Chinese goods.

This move will double the prices of many items, making them comparable to those on platforms such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

“These charges cover all customs-related processes and costs, including import fees paid to customs authorities on your behalf. The amount listed may not represent the actual amount paid to customs authorities,” a notice on Temu’s checkout page reads.

Temu has explained that these charges cover customs-related processes and costs, including import fees paid to customs authorities. However, the e-commerce giant hasn't clarified why the charges are so high.

Meanwhile, Shein has raised prices but doesn't add separate import fees at checkout, instead including tariff costs in product prices.

Temu customers are frustrated with the sudden price increases, expressing their disappointment on forums like Reddit.

Some customers have noted that prices for items shipped from US warehouses don't include these extra charges, making them more attractive.

Several analysts believed Temu's heavy reliance on low prices might make it vulnerable to customer defections.

Shein's approach to absorbing tariff costs in product prices might give it an edge. Both companies are building US inventory and exploring local production options to mitigate the impact.