1 minute read
BUYER BEWARE
Online retailers like SHEIN, Temu, and Amazon are known for their low prices. But their “great buys” come with hidden costs.
These companies stand accused of horrible practices such as operating sweatshops, stealing intellectual property from designers, damaging the environment, and selling goods containing toxins like lead. There are even credible reports of forced labor in their supply chains.
America’s own trade laws are giving these brands an unfair advantage, and at the same time, are also undermining our manufacturers and workers.
The “de minimis” loophole allows packages valued under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. Because SHEIN and others send their cheap goods directly to consumers, they are able to dodge import duties, even though they ship hundreds of thousands of packages to the United States every single day.
It’s time to reform de minimis. Let’s ensure SHEIN, Temu, and Amazon pay their fair share.
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Cover art by Richard Borge
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