The Take Another Take: What US tariffs mean for Shein and Temu shoppers
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Dec 20, 2025 Aja Barber, a sustainability advocate and author of 'Consumed,' dives deep into the implications of U.S. tariffs and the end of the de minimis exemption for shoppers of fast fashion giants like Shein and Temu. She discusses how these tariffs could disrupt the culture of overconsumption, forcing consumers to reconsider their shopping habits. Aja also shares practical advice on shifting towards ethical consumption and highlights the need for regulatory change alongside personal responsibility.
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Loophole Fueled Ultra-Cheap Retail
- The de minimis exemption let goods under $800 enter the U.S. duty-free, fueling the rise of direct-to-consumer companies like Shein and Temu.
- Aja Barber argues this loophole shifted costs onto U.S. services and encouraged rampant overconsumption.
Hidden Costs Shifted To Public Services
- Companies using the loophole avoided paying for burdens they imposed on U.S. infrastructure, like postal delivery costs.
- Barber links duty-free shipping to consumer indifference and increased frivolous purchases harming the planet.
Childhood Overalls Worn Until Worn Out
- Barber saved babysitting money to buy coveted Oshkosh overalls and wore them until they were unrepairable.
- The overalls were made in a union-run U.S. factory and lasted far longer than today's fast fashion pieces.