U.S. imports from China fell sharply in June, despite rush of orders ahead of new tariffs

Source: CBS News/AP

July 14, 2025 / 11:18 AM EDT


China's exports accelerated in June as a reprieve on U.S. tariffs prompted a rush of orders by companies and consumers ahead of an August deadline. Exports climbed 5.8% from a year earlier, up from a 4.8% rise in May. Imports also recovered, growing 1.1% in the first increase so far this year, according to customs data released Monday.

Exports to the United States fell 16%, but that was less than half the 34.5% drop seen in May, as some companies rush to pre-order inventory before the August expiration of a 90-day tariff truce.

After U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs of up to 245% on imports from China and Beijing responded with its own steep import duties, the two sides agreed to a truce to allow time for talks.

The retailers and other importers that had largely halted shipments of shoes, clothes, toys, and other items due to new tariffs then resumed imports from China.

Read more: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-china-imports-june-tariffs/