Overview
- Temu and Shein have informed customers that price increases will take effect on April 25, 2025, as operating costs rise due to new U.S. trade rules and tariffs.
- President Trump’s 145% tariff on Chinese imports and the elimination of the de minimis exemption starting May 2 are key drivers of the policy changes impacting these retailers.
- Both companies have significantly reduced U.S. ad spending, with Temu cutting its digital ad budget by 31% and Shein by 19%, potentially affecting platforms like Meta and Alphabet.
- U.S. shoppers have stockpiled purchases from Temu and Shein, leading to a surge in sales in March and early April, with Temu’s revenue up 46% and 60% during those periods.
- Analysts suggest the policy shifts could disrupt the low-cost business models of these platforms, forcing them to explore alternative sourcing and pricing strategies.