As Shein and Temu Hold Back, Chinese Exporters Rush to Latin America Amid U.S. Tariffs

Photo by Dick Thomas

Although the U.S.–China tariff truce was extended for an additional 90 days—offering a brief break—the deal did little to reassure many exporters. At the China Cross‑Border E‑Commerce Trade Fair in Guangzhou, exhibitors from revealed they had suspended U.S. operations during earlier tariff hikes. Even with the temporary calm, uncertainty remains a constant presence in their planning process. The pattern of reacting rather than strategizing reflects a fundamental unease with the durability of U.S. trade policy.

Meanwhile, platforms such as Shein, Temu, TikTok Shop, and Amazon lined up at the fair to attract vendors, offering access to the lucrative U.S. market. Amazon, for instance, emphasized how newcomers could tap into high consumer traffic using its lower-threshold infrastructure. Still, exporters admitted they felt reactive—waiting to see what happens next rather than taking proactive steps.

Platforms Are Expanding, But Risk Is Rising

Retail platforms are opening doors to new sellers, promising global reach and simplified logistics. But for many exporters, the U.S.'s unpredictable trade environment remains a looming threat. Seasonal exporters, like those providing Christmas decorations, shared that deals were already disrupted when tariffs first hit. Some manufacturers adapted quickly to still meet holiday shipment targets, but the early disruptions caused significant scrambling.

In response, e-commerce logistics providers like EDA Group are steering clients to adopt an omnichannel approach. Many exporters are now exploring emerging markets, such as Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Africa, as alternatives—and even future hedges—against further U.S. shocks.

Latin America Gains Momentum as Sellers Look Beyond U.S.

Latin America is fast emerging as a key destination for Chinese cross-border sellers. Platforms like Mercado Libre are experiencing rising inquiries as exporters diversify, especially amid policy shifts. This movement reflects changing global trade patterns, where Latin America is becoming a promising alternative to the U.S. market.

Meanwhile, Mexican tariffs imposed on low-cost imports—such as the new 19% duty on non-FTA shipments—have given providers like Amazon and Mercado Libre a competitive edge over Asian platforms like Shein and Temu. As American platforms benefit, exporters are encouraged to reassess their export strategies toward more receptive markets.

Why This Matters

For Chinese exporters, dependence on a volatile U.S. market is no longer tenable. The tariff truce may delay disruption, but it doesn't remove risk. Platforms like Amazon, Shein, and Temu offer tools for global access, but exporters are realizing that resilience comes from geographic diversification. Latin America, with its growing demand and friendly platforms, is becoming the next frontier.