Overview

• President Trump's 145% tariffs on Chinese imports have forced Chinatown merchants to raise prices by 30–40%, with some items doubling in cost.
• Small business owners are delaying shipments and stockpiling supplies to manage unpredictable cost increases caused by the tariffs.
• Chinatown leaders warn that the economic impact of the trade war could surpass the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, as no financial relief has been provided.
• California has joined a multi-state lawsuit challenging the tariffs, with Governor Gavin Newsom exploring trade exemptions and support measures for affected businesses.
• Online retailers like Temu and Shein have begun passing import surcharges to consumers, further highlighting the widespread effects of the tariff policy.