Reported by CNBC and Other U.S. Media Outlets
Additional 125% Tariff on Top of Existing 20%
Tariffs on Parcels Under $800 Raised Again
The total tariff rate imposed by the United States on China, which retaliated with countermeasures, is 145%, and the tariff rate on small parcels from China will also be increased to 120%, according to U.S. media reports. As a result, Chinese e-commerce companies targeting the U.S. market with low-priced goods are expected to suffer significant damage.
On the 10th (local time), CNBC, CNN, and others reported that the White House confirmed the total tariff rate imposed by the U.S. on Chinese imports since the inauguration of the Donald Trump administration is 145%.
CNBC stated, "The reciprocal tariff rate on China is specified as 125% in the executive order," adding, "You need to add the 20% fentanyl (tariff) rate," and "a White House official confirmed that 145% is the exact new tariff rate currently applied to Chinese goods."
According to the executive order titled "Modification of Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Retaliation and Support from Trade Partners," released by the White House that day, the existing reciprocal tariff rate of 84% on China is deleted and replaced with "125%."
Earlier, President Trump imposed a 20% (10% + 10%) tariff on fentanyl imports from China to the U.S., citing concerns over fentanyl distribution. Therefore, the total tariff rate imposed on China since the Trump administration took office is 145%, which is the sum of the additional 125% and the 20% fentanyl tariff.
President Trump also specified that these tariffs on China would be imposed starting at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on the 10th.
Additionally, the order includes a provision that reciprocal tariffs on countries other than China will be deferred for 90 days starting at 12:01 a.m. on the 10th.
Hong Kong's South China Morning Post (SCMP) and others reported that the tariff rate on small parcels entering the U.S. from mainland China and Hong Kong will also be raised to 120% starting May 2. This announcement came just one day after the tariff rate on small parcels under $800 (approximately 1.17 million KRW), which were previously exempt under the small parcel exemption system, was raised to 90%.
Furthermore, the fee charged on parcels entering the U.S. will be increased to $200 per shipment starting June 1. As a result, Chinese e-commerce companies such as Temu and Shein, which have been exporting ultra-low-priced products produced in Chinese factories to the U.S. by utilizing duty-free benefits, are expected to be directly hit.
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