Temu Abruptly Stops Direct China-to-US Shipments as Key Tariff Loophole Closes

E-commerce giant Temu has suspended its ultra-fast direct shipping from China to U.S. consumers following the expiration of the 800 de minimis tariff exemption, a move that could add 15−30 800, directly impacting Temu’s competitive pricing model.
Key Impacts:
-
25 million monthly U.S. orders now subject to customs review
-
Delivery times extended from 10 days to 3-4 weeks
-
Price hikes imminent on electronics, apparel, and home goods
Industry Reaction:
“This fundamentally changes the math for ultra-cheap e-commerce,” said GlobalData retail analyst Neil Saunders. “Temu must now choose between absorbing costs or losing price-sensitive shoppers.”
What’s Next?
Temu is reportedly:
✔ Leasing U.S. warehouse space for pre-cleared inventory
✔ Negotiating with third-party logistics providers
✔ Testing a new “bulk shipping” model to consolidate duties