U.S.-China to Release Joint Trade Statement on May 12 After Constructive Talks

2025.5.12 GoodsFox Daily E-commerce News: U.S.-China to Release Joint Trade Statement on May 12 After Constructive Talks

U.S. Considers Slashing China Tariffs to 50–54%, First Major Reduction in 2025
Malaysia Launches Online Halal Certification System for Faster Approvals
U.S.-China to Release Joint Trade Statement on May 12 After Constructive Talks
J&T Express Faces Backlash Over Predatory Pricing in Southeast Asia
Temu’s Full-Fulfillment Shutdown Drives Amazon Order Surge

1. U.S. Considers Slashing China Tariffs to 50–54%, First Major Reduction in 2025

The Trump administration is weighing a 50–54% tariff rate on Chinese imports—down from the current 145%—with potential implementation as early as next week. The proposed rate combines a 20% fentanyl-related duty and 34% reciprocal tariff, aligning with March discussions between Trump and U.S. retail executives (Walmart, Target, Home Depot). While the White House insists no final decision is made, Trump has signaled a "necessary downward adjustment" amid pressure from retailers struggling with 18% YoY price hikes. U.S. Customs has advised importers to prepare for 50–54% duty calculations, with South Asian countries likely seeing tariffs drop to 25%.

Source: GoodsFox

2. Malaysia Launches Online Halal Certification System for Faster Approvals

Malaysia’s JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development) transitioned all SPHM halal certification applications to its MYeHALAL platform on May 5, eliminating paper processes. Successful applicants receive instant digital certificates (e-Certs), with optional physical copies available via formal request (subject to fees under 2020 guidelines). The move cuts processing times by 40%, supporting SMEs exporting halal goods to Southeast Asia’s $240B halal market.

3. U.S.-China to Release Joint Trade Statement on May 12 After Constructive Talks

Following two days of Geneva negotiations, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and U.S. Treasury Secretary Bethany Zent announced plans for a May 12 joint statement outlining "substantial progress" on tariff adjustments and supply chain safeguards. Key outcomes include:

Establishment of a economic dialogue framework
Commitment to reduce "punitive tariffs" on critical goods (textiles, electronics)
Agreement to resume data sharing on customs valuations and origin certifications

4. J&T Express Faces Backlash Over Predatory Pricing in Southeast Asia

J&T Express’s 28.6% market share in Southeast Asia (2024) has sparked industry outrage, with competitors accusing it of "predatory pricing"—shipping rates as low as $0.80 per parcel in Indonesia. The Indonesian Logistics Association (ALFI) claims J&T’s strategy has caused a 30% revenue drop for rivals, leading to layoffs and wage cuts. While J&T defends its model as "scale-driven efficiency," it faces regulatory scrutiny: Indonesia is drafting minimum price floors, and TikTok Shop (its key partner) is building in-house logistics. Ninja Van CEO James Tan urges regional harmonization: "Unchecked price wars risk long-term sustainability."

5. Temu’s Full-Fulfillment Shutdown Drives Amazon Order Surge

Temu’s May 2 decision to end China-to-U.S. full-fulfillment (replacing it with U.S. semi-fulfillment) has boosted Amazon sales, with sellers reporting 15–20% order growth since Monday. Key factors:

Temu price hikes: Average product prices rose 15–377% post-shutdown, pushing budget shoppers to Amazon.
Logistics advantage: U.S.-based sellers now enjoy 7–10 day delivery (vs. Temu’s previous 20–30 days) and no tariff surprises.
Category winners: Apparel (up 25%), home decor (18%), and electronics (15%) see the biggest gains as Temu narrows its catalog.

Amazon’s Buy Shipping program—offering 12% FedEx discounts—further incentivizes sellers to prioritize the platform amid Temu’s transition.

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