이미지 확대
SEOUL, March 24 (AJP) - Growing uncertainty over potential changes to U.S. trade policy is fueling concern in South Korea that Chinese e-commerce giants may deepen their foothold in the Korean market, potentially triggering wider economic repercussions.
Last month, the Trump administration announced plans to scrap the long-standing “de minimis” exemption for imports from China, Canada and Mexico — a duty-free threshold that currently allows goods valued under $800 to enter the United States without incurring tariffs, so long as they are intended for personal use.
Although the White House has since delayed implementation, the proposed rollback has prompted speculation over how Chinese exporters may adapt.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, more than 60 percent of the $64.6 billion in duty-free shipments under the de minimis provision originates from China. If access to the U.S. market becomes more restricted, trade officials warn, Chinese sellers could reroute shipments through other countries — including South Korea.
AliExpress and Temu, two of China’s fastest-growing online retail platforms, have already made significant inroads in South Korea.
In January 2025, they surpassed several local competitors to become the country’s second- and third-most downloaded shopping apps, trailing only Coupang.
The rapid rise of Chinese platforms has coincided with a broader shift in South Korea’s online trade balance.
In 2019, the nation posted a surplus of 2.37 trillion won in e-commerce. By 2024, that figure had reversed to a deficit of 6.24 trillion won. Trade with China has seen an even more dramatic turnaround, from a surplus of 4.52 trillion won to a deficit of 3.8 trillion won over the same period.
“If Chinese e-commerce companies choose Korea as a detour route for exports to the U.S., Korea may also be targeted by U.S. import sanctions,” the Korea International Trade Association said in a statement. The organization added that American authorities are already stepping up investigations into efforts by Chinese firms to circumvent trade rules.
Trade experts are urging Korean companies to monitor developments in U.S. tariff policy closely. Some suggest the shifting landscape may present opportunities for Korean exporters to capture market share in the United States, particularly by appealing to high-income consumer segments such as older Americans through tailored marketing and specialized products.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
View more comments