The Daily The End of Fast Fashion?
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May 15, 2025 
Meaghan Tobin, a New York Times correspondent covering business and technology in Asia, tackles the evolving landscape of fast fashion. She discusses the impact of the recent closure of a tax loophole that allowed Chinese companies like Shein to ship affordable clothing to the U.S. tax-free. As prices are set to rise, Tobin examines the future of budget-friendly fashion and the implications for workers in garment manufacturing. She highlights Guangzhou's role as a global manufacturing hub and the broader challenges of sustainable fashion practices.
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Teen's Ultra-Cheap Shein Haul
- A teenage daughter spent less than $30 for a haul including a $5 bikini and $6 jeans shorts from Shein.
- This exemplifies the ultra-low price point and appeal of Shein to young American consumers.
De Minimis Loophole Explained
- The de minimis exemption allowed imports under $800 to enter the U.S. tax-free.
- This was intended to ease trade and support businesses during the rise of online shopping.
Shein's Ultra-Fast Fashion Model
- Shein operates unlike traditional fast fashion by using a vast supplier network to create new products daily.
- They ship directly to customers, enabling ultra-fast, trend-responsive business.