US tariffs 104%: what to do if you buy from China. Will Trump kill imports from China?!

Since early April, the U.S. government led by Donald Trump has significantly increased tariffs on imports from China.It started at 10%, then increased by another 34%, and later — an additional 50%. In total, this adds up to a 104% hike. But is the situation truly critical for businesses working with China? Let’s break down what’s really happening — and how to respond wisely.

What Does a 104% Tariff Actually Mean?

It’s important to understand: the final 104% is a cumulative figure, including 20% from previous tariffs that only applied to specific categories of goods. The new 84% applies to a much broader range of products. However, this does not mean that every single item is now taxed at the full 104% rate.

How Will This Affect Shipping from China?

Many entrepreneurs — especially sellers on Amazon, TikTok Shop, and other marketplaces — are wondering if logistics costs will now skyrocket.

At Unreal China, we’re closely monitoring the situation and want to ease the panic:

• When tariffs rose to 34%, the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping cost only increased by about 20–30 cents per kilogram.

• With the additional 50%, the expected increase is about 40–50 cents per kilogram more.

• So even with a total increase of 84%, the overall shipping cost increases by less than $1/kg — far from a catastrophe.

Comparison with the COVID Era

During the pandemic, ocean freight costs reached $3–4/kg.Today, even with the new tariffs, DDP shipping costs range between $1.5 and $3.5/kg, depending on speed and volume — much more affordable than during COVID.

Chinese DDP: Still the Most Convenient Option

No other country in the world offers a logistics system as streamlined as China’s.The turnkey DDP delivery system allows sellers to avoid dealing with customs, clearance, and hidden charges. This makes Chinese exports uniquely resilient, even under tariff pressure.

Are Alternatives to China Realistic?

Tariffs weren’t only raised for China — Cambodia, Vietnam, and India were also affected (with hikes of 44–46%, 16%, etc.).However, none of these countries can match China when it comes to:

• Speed of production cycles

• Level of automation

• Quality of logistics infrastructure

• Supplier availability

Yes, you can test alternatives — but in reality, replacing China is complex and unprofitable.

What Should Businesses Do?

• Don’t panic. Overreacting in a storm is the worst strategy. Monitor the situation, but don’t rush to switch suppliers or logistics partners.

• Check current rates. Talk to your freight forwarders and logistics agents. Get real-time DDP pricing.

• Plan your stock. If you have inventory in Amazon warehouses or prep centers, don’t rush into new shipments. Wait a few days and observe the market’s response.

• Have a backup. If you wish, test suppliers in other countries. Order samples, check logistics — but China should still remain your main channel for now.

Conclusion

Despite the alarming headlines, the tariff hikes have not become a disaster. Chinese logistics remains the most affordable, flexible, and predictable in the world.

Unreal China continues to operate, support clients, and stay on top of every change. We’re here to advise, consult, and find the best solutions for any market conditions.

If you’re working with China — stay calm, act rationally, and don’t give in to panic.The world keeps trading — and you’ll adapt too.

Need help shipping from China without the stress?Contact Unreal China — we’ll make sure your goods arrive smoothly and efficiently.