Tariffs Stack Higher: Michelle Schulz on WBAP Radio Dallas–Fort Worth
- Schulz Trade Law
- Aug 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 30
Tariffs Stack Higher:
Michelle Schulz on WBAP Radio Dallas–Fort Worth
August 28, 2025
Dallas trade attorney Michelle Schulz explains how the end of the de minimis exemption and new tariff hikes on China will drive up costs for U.S. consumers and businesses.
De Minimis Exemption Ends Nationwide
On WBAP Radio’s James Parker Show, international trade attorney Michelle Schulz explained that the $800 de minimis exemption — which had allowed small packages to enter the U.S. duty-free — is eliminated as of August 29, 2025.
“Packages that were duty free because they were under $800 as of tomorrow will no longer be duty free. Now the duties will go up. We’re going to have duties not just on China, but every country. And there’s no low threshold.”
This means no more exemptions for small, low-value imports, from Shein clothes to everyday consumer electronics. Even inexpensive items shipped from Australia, Europe, and beyond will now carry duties.
China Tariffs Continue to Rise
In addition to the global rule change, Schulz explained that tariffs on Chinese goods are set to increase again on November 10, 2025:
“The reciprocal tariff will go up to 34% for China on November 10.”
And these aren’t isolated costs. Many imports already face stacked tariffs — Section 301 duties, retaliatory measures, and now the removal of exemptions. In some cases, Schulz noted, tariffs are already reaching close to 100%.
Impact on Consumers and Small Businesses
When asked whether the changes affect only large importers, Schulz was clear:
“To me, it affects everyone, because the increase in tariffs is impacting all supply chains, all importers, small and large, and it’s trickling down to consumers already. You’re going to start seeing higher prices on things like clothing or items imported from countries you didn’t think about, like Australia.”
For small businesses, particularly those with sole-source suppliers, the impact could be devastating. Some companies are unable to reshore or source alternatives, leaving them at risk of insolvency under the new cost burdens.
Countries in a Better Position
Not all trade partners face the same pressure. Schulz noted that the United Kingdom has negotiated minimal tariffs and remains part of the civil aircraft agreement, shielding some of its industries from the sharpest increases. By contrast, Chinese aircraft parts may soon see even higher tariffs if negotiations stall.
Tariff changes are moving quickly — from the end of the de minimis exemption to stacked duties on Chinese imports. These shifts will raise prices, complicate supply chains, and threaten small businesses.
If you’re a business owner, importer, or consumer concerned about how tariffs will affect your costs and compliance obligations:
Contact Schulz Trade Law for expert guidance on:
Navigating new tariff structures
Assessing compliance risks
Developing sourcing strategies to minimize exposure
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