Shein and Temu are preparing to raise their prices in the US. In almost the same notice to customers, the ultra-cheap retailers warn that they will start adjusting their prices on April 25th due to changes to “global trade rules and tariffs.”
President Donald Trump has raised tariffs on goods imported from China to up to 145 percent, with the administration noting this week that tariffs on some imports, like electric vehicles, could reach up to 245 percent when added to existing levies.
The US is also getting rid of the de minimis exemption that allowed products valued under $800 to avoid tariffs, something Shein and Temu have relied on for years. Now, both companies, which sell everything from cheap clothing to toys, electronics, and home products, will no longer be able to take advantage of the exemption starting May 2nd.
“Until April 25, prices will stay the same, so you can shop now at today’s rates,” Shein and Temu say on their websites. “We’re doing everything we can to keep prices low and minimize the impact on you.”
On Wednesday, the app analysis company Sensor Tower reported that Shein and Temu had cut their digital ad spending on social media platforms in the US. While Temu’s ad spend fell an average of 31 percent from March 31st to April 13th compared to the 30 days before, Shein’s dipped an average of 19 percent during the same time.
