The United States has exponentially increased tariffs on imports from China, raising them to a whopping 145% in early April. This escalation led to increased costs for both consumers and businesses in America. Although the tariff hike was later partially rolled back and a 90-day exemption period was introduced, future trade policy remains highly uncertain. It’s entirely possible that tariffs will be reinstated or adjusted again, causing continued disruption for anyone relying on Chinese-made goods.
Let’s see how rising import duty from China to the USA can impact an average consumer and how you can still buy Chinese products cheaply.
Why It Matters: The U.S. Relies on Chinese Imports
A large portion of goods available in American retail stores are manufactured in China. In 2024 alone, the United States imported approximately $438.9 billion worth of goods from China[1]. These imports span various categories, including electronics, machinery, textiles, and toys, which are part and parcel of most American households.
With the increased import duty from China to the USA, the prices of all these items are likely to see a major boost. Retailers who rely on Chinese imports will face increased costs, which eventually will be passed on to consumers. The fallout of this situation is already visible. For instance, toy manufacturers have indicated that prices for toys could rise by 15% to 20% due to the new US import tariffs[2].
Similarly, small businesses in areas like New York’s Chinatown are experiencing price hikes of 10% to 50% on various products, leading to concerns about affordability for consumers[3].
These developments suggest that American consumers may soon encounter higher prices on everyday items since the increased customs fee from China to the USA can disturb the supply chains.
Alternative Channels for Purchasing Chinese Products
As US tariffs on Chinese imports rise, consumers are exploring alternative avenues to procure Chinese products at more affordable prices. Here are the three platforms facilitating cheaper access to the Chinese market:
- DHgate
DHgate is a Beijing-based e-commerce platform that connects international buyers with Chinese manufacturers and wholesalers. It offers electronics, apparel, home goods, and other products at competitive prices. Its user-friendly interface and robust logistics network have contributed to its appeal among global shoppers.
In fact, many people have already turned to DHgate as shown in the report that DHgate saw a 940% surge in U.S. iOS downloads in April 2025[4].
- Taobao
Taobao, operated by Alibaba Group, is one of China’s largest online shopping platforms, offering a wide range of products from various sellers. While primarily catering to the domestic Chinese market, international buyers can access Taobao through third-party agents or platforms that facilitate purchases and shipping.
Using Taobao can be challenging for non-Chinese speakers, as the platform is predominantly in Chinese. However, tools like browser translation extensions and shopping guides can assist in the process.
- SUGARGOO
SUGARGOO is an exceptional Chinese shopping platform. It offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to simplify the purchasing process and reduce costs associated with international shipping and customs duties. It provides access to shipping options that are weight-based and free of add-on taxes, covering regions including Europe and the United States.
You can also utilize various add-on services such as priority purchasing, shoebox removal, personalized QC pictures, vacuum packaging, waterproof packaging, and shockproof packaging. These services enhance the shopping experience and protect items during transit.
Wrapping-Up
The rising import duty from China to the USA is shifting the way American consumers approach their everyday purchases. As tariffs continue to push retail prices upward, the need for smarter and more direct buying strategies has never been greater. Platforms like DHgate, Taobao, and SUGARGOO are stepping in as practical alternatives, giving consumers access to the same products they are used to, but at far more competitive prices.
