Uncanny Valley | WIRED A Tariff Standoff with China, Power Outages and the End of Christmas
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Apr 29, 2025 Louise Matsakis, WIRED's Senior Business Editor focused on e-commerce and tariffs, joins to discuss the fallout from President Trump’s tariff standoff with China. She highlights the looming challenges for businesses faced with production delays, putting Christmas merchandise at risk. The conversation delves into how e-commerce platforms are adapting to tariffs, emphasizing transparent pricing to protect consumers. Matsakis also touches on the broader implications for U.S. manufacturing and supply chains amidst rising economic uncertainty.
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Early Christmas Manufacturing Deadlines
- Christmas manufacturing deadlines start as early as April to meet production and shipping schedules.
- Christmas goods require early planning due to months-long manufacturing and shipping times from China.
Chinese Manufacturers Adapt to Tariffs
- U.S. tariffs cause retailers to pause orders, forcing Chinese manufacturers to pivot or close.
- Chinese manufacturers adapt designs, such as altering Santa figurines to appeal to other markets.
No U.S. Ornament Manufacturing Boost
- U.S. ornament manufacturing is minimal and does not gain from tariffs.
- Even small ornament crafters rely on Chinese-supplied craft materials.