Shipments of goods from China to the U.S. have plummeted, thanks to the steep tariffs imposed by the convicted felon and adjudicated sexual abuser Donald Trump. These tariffs—now as high as 145% on Chinese imports—have brought trade between the two nations to a near halt. U.S. retailers, already facing pressure from inflation and supply chain issues, are warning that store shelves may soon be empty as a result of the Orange Criminal’s aggressive and breathtakingly stupid trade policies.
Trump’s trade war with China escalated sharply when he excluded China from the 90-day tariff reprieve he extended to other nations. In retaliation, China hit back with tariffs of up to 125% on U.S. goods. The back-and-forth has caused chaos at ports like Los Angeles and Long Beach, where imports are down significantly. Officials predict a 35% drop in cargo arrivals, with container bookings from China down by as much as 60%, particularly troubling given this is typically a busy import season.
Major retailers like Walmart and Target have already warned Trump that his tariff strategy could lead to serious inventory shortages. While some companies rushed to import goods before the tariffs took effect, that stockpile won’t last. By summer, American consumers could face rising prices and COVID-like shortages for everyday items, including furniture, clothing, electronics, and auto parts.
Freight and logistics companies report a “widespread booking freeze” as businesses pause shipments to assess rising costs and uncertainty surrounding Trump’s trade agenda. Carriers are even canceling sailings due to underfilled cargo ships. Ocean freight prices have collapsed, reflecting the sharp decline in trade activity directly tied to the tariff hikes.
Small businesses are being hit especially hard. Many, like U.S. lingerie brand Kilo Brava, say they simply can’t afford to import goods with tariffs at 145%. For some, Trump’s trade war may be a death blow. “We’ll just have to abandon the goods and close the company,” the owner said, unless the administration reverses course. Trump’s hardline stance, intended to punish China, is instead choking U.S. commerce and threatening both small businesses and consumers alike.
Congratulations, America! You voted for this. Morons.