Until August 29, 2025, the U.S. allowed low-value international shipments under USD 800 to enter duty-free—a critical benefit that enabled Korean SMEs to export cosmetics, food, and K-pop merchandise affordably to U.S. consumers via platforms like Amazon and eBay. However, that exemption was abruptly revoked, and a sweeping 15% retaliatory tariff now applies to most goods—alongside a possible additional 50% levy on select items with metal components. This sudden policy change has sharply undermined the online cross-border export model for many Korean small businesses. For instance, one cosmetics exporter saw U.S. customs apply a 50% tariff due to aluminum packaging, causing retail prices to surge—and risking a major drop in orders if costs are passed to consumers. Another SME producing stainless-steel tumblers with K-pop icons experienced retail price hikes from around KRW 50,000 (~USD 37) to KRW 75,000 (~USD 56)—dampening demand. Returns have become another headache—some U.S. buyers, unaware of the new fees, are refusing deliveries. As one SME noted, return shipping from the U.S. can cost “five to ten times more” than expected. With export growth faltering and fewer dollars flowing back, SME leaders are calling on the Korean government to step in with concrete aid. This tariff shock isn’t just a cost issue—it also undermines Korea’s soft power and cultural export presence, especially in K-beauty, K-food, and K-pop merchandise sectors. Investors, too, now face heightened risk in consumer-facing startup ventures reliant on U.S. demand. The sudden shift highlights the fragility of export strategies that lean heavily on duty-free paths. (ICE SEOUL)

Fonte notizia: Korea TechDesk