Shopify is publicly urging the U.S. to protect a key import exemption for small businesses, following President Trump's decision to delay new tariffs on certain Chinese goods.
Oct 2, 2025
Source:
TechCrunch
Shopify Defends Key Trade Exemption
E-commerce giant Shopify has publicly called for the protection of "open trade," specifically advocating for the U.S. to maintain the “de minimis” exemption for low-value imports. The statement came as the Trump administration announced a delay in its plan to end the exemption for certain Chinese goods.
This long-standing rule allows shipments valued under $800 to enter the U.S. without tariffs or taxes. For countless small businesses, this exemption is a lifeline.
Protecting Small Businesses
In a recent blog post, Shopify argued that removing the exemption would directly harm entrepreneurs. The company stated that such a move would lead to:
Higher costs for small merchants.
Disrupted supply chains across the globe.
Limited ability to compete in the U.S. market.
Shopify is urging regulators to make the current pause on its removal a permanent decision, framing it as essential for the health of international e-commerce.
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Source:
Shopifreaks
Tariffs Threaten Merchant Viability
The debate over the de minimis rule is part of a broader tension surrounding U.S. trade policy. The Trump administration has signaled its intent to collect more tariff revenue once customs systems are updated, creating significant uncertainty.
The Impact on E-commerce
According to industry analyses, new tariffs could severely impact online merchants. The primary concerns include:
A sharp increase in the cost of goods, particularly those sourced from China.
Reduced profit margins for businesses operating on tight budgets.
Significant shipping delays due to increased customs inspections.
Shopify President Harley Finkelstein emphasized that trade restrictions disproportionately affect small entrepreneurs. "These policies harm small businesses, not just large corporations," he noted in a public statement.
Shopify's Response
In response, Shopify has already implemented tools to help its merchants adapt. The platform now enables sellers to calculate and collect duties during the checkout process. It also encourages merchants to diversify by using local suppliers or sourcing from countries with lower tariff rates to mitigate risks.
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Source:
Studylib
