Tariff-Induced Price Hikes at Hallmark: Crucial Information You Should Be Aware Of
In a recent development, several e-commerce platforms, including Shein, Temu, TikTok Shop, and Amazon, have experienced price increases on various products due to new import charges. These tariffs, imposed by the Trump administration, are causing a ripple effect, with businesses passing along the costs to consumers.
Shein, a popular fashion retailer, initiated price adjustments on April 25, leading to increased costs across all categories. The same trend is visible on Temu, where a full-sized inflatable pool, originally listed as a Mother's Day deal for $50.03, now carries a warning of being almost sold out at local warehouses.
The tariff-induced price hikes are not limited to fashion and home goods. Hallmark, a company known for its greeting cards and ornaments, is also adjusting prices for select imported products in response to the current economic climate. Interestingly, Hallmark produces 75% of its products in its Kansas-based manufacturing facilities, suggesting that the impact of tariffs extends beyond goods sourced exclusively from China.
One of the most significant changes affecting Hallmark's product line is the price increase for popular items such as Disneyland's 70th Anniversary Musical ornament, The Mandalorian Grogu ornament, Disney's Winnie the Pooh Baby's First Christmas 2025 Ornament, and more. A bestselling set of 10 kitchen towels saw its price increase by an astonishing 377% due to tariffs.
Not all news is negative, however. Certain top-rated or best-selling products on Temu now bear a "local" banner, indicating they are in local warehouses and don't require import charges. For instance, a garden camping hammock on Temu now costs $6.75 with no import charges for all local warehouse items.
Amazon may not disclose import charges on its Haul e-commerce site, but the retail giant has denied plans to display import charges caused by tariffs. This lack of transparency has led to some frustration among customers, with many taking to social media platforms like TikTok to express their concerns.
The elimination of the so-called "de minimis" exemption in May, which allowed products sourced from China and Hong Kong under the price point of $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free, has further exacerbated the situation. This means U.S. consumers must now pay duties to import items from the Republic of China and Hong Kong.
In response to these developments, some consumers have expressed their frustration, while others, such as supporters of President Trump, are calling for boycotts of companies like Hallmark due to perceived "price-gauging." Walmart, too, has announced plans to raise its prices for Christmas ornaments and gifts following import taxes on goods from China in 2025.
As the situation continues to evolve, it's essential for consumers to stay informed about the impact of tariffs on the prices of their favourite products. By understanding the reasons behind these changes, consumers can make more informed decisions when shopping online.
