President Trump Signs Executive Order Temporarily Reducing Tariffs on Chinese Imports: 90-Day Relief Period Begins May 14

On May 12, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order temporarily suspending a portion of the additional tariffs imposed on goods imported from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including Hong Kong and Macau.

This order follows a joint economic statement released earlier that day by the U.S. and China in Geneva, signaling a move toward easing trade tensions. The tariff suspension takes effect May 14, 2025, and will remain in place for 90 days, offering businesses a short but meaningful window to reassess supply chain and investment strategies.

What’s in the Executive Order?

Here’s what the order does:

• Suspends 24% in additional tariffs: Goods previously subject to a 34% ad valorem duty will now be taxed at 10% for 90 days.

• Applies to imports from China, Hong Kong, and Macau, entered for consumption on or after May 14, 2025.

• Maintains tariffs on certain fentanyl-related goods, which remain at 20%.

• Lowers the rate on low-value imports (de minimis) from 120% to 54%.

• Freezes the planned increase in parcel fees: The flat fee per postal item stays at $100 (rather than increasing to $200 on June 1, as previously scheduled).

What This Means for Businesses

This is not a rollback of all U.S.-China tariffs, but it’s a meaningful pause — and it may offer a cost advantage or strategic opening for certain businesses.

If your company sources goods from China or is considering expansion into the U.S. market, this 90-day window offers an opportunity to:

• Accelerate shipments or restructure timing to benefit from reduced duty rates

• Re-evaluate expansion or supply chain plans in light of temporary cost relief

• Prepare for potential reversals, as the order clearly states that this is a time-limited adjustment — not a long-term shift in policy

If you have any questions about how this tariff policy may affect your business, please contact our team at contact@consultils.com for expert advice.

Disclaimer: The materials provided on this website are for general informational purposes only and do not, and are not intended to, constitute legal advice. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any information provided here. Please consult with your own legal counsel regarding your specific situation and legal questions.