Temu Halts China-to-US Shipments Amid Tariff Surge

Temu, the Chinese e-commerce platform, has abruptly ceased direct shipments from China to U.S. customers following punitive tariff hikes and the expiration of the de minimis provision. Product listings now appear as "sold out" for U.S. buyers sourcing directly from Chinese warehouses.

The platform implemented import charges as high as 150% this week, more than doubling item costs overnight. These fees, labeled as covering "customs duties, taxes, and other government-imposed charges," reflect escalating trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Market observers note the move could accelerate supply chain diversification away from China, potentially impacting cross-border payment flows—a development cryptocurrency networks are poised to facilitate amid growing trade friction.