President Donald Trump has extended the pause on higher tariffs on Chinese imports for another 90 days, delaying a potential 145 percent tariff until early November. This reprieve provides U.S. jewelry wholesalers and retailers with critical time to adjust sourcing strategies and stock up ahead of the holiday season, as China remains the world's leading producer of freshwater pearls and a key supplier of finished jewelry and components.
Tariff extension details
In an executive order issued Monday, President Trump extended the pause on higher tariffs on Chinese goods for an additional 90 days, moving the deadline to early November. The current tariff structure includes a 30 percent tax on Chinese imports (including goods from Hong Kong) and a 10 percent tax on U.S. imports to China, applied on top of existing 301 tariffs. Without this extension, tariffs would have reverted to peak levels of 145 percent on Chinese imports and 125 percent on U.S. goods in China.
Industry reaction and supply-chain impact
Jewelers of America President and CEO David Bonaparte noted, "The 90-day pause with China is giving a brief sigh of relief from wholesalers and retailers in the U.S., as a tariff of 145 percent would be difficult to handle." He emphasized that China is the world's leading producer of freshwater pearls, and many U.S. wholesalers and retailers source pearls and other products from China. Jewelers Vigilance Committee CEO Sara Yood added that the extension provides temporary stability, helping businesses navigate the challenging tariff volatility that complicates long-term planning.
What buyers should watch
U.S. importers of Chinese jewelry—including sterling silver, gold-plated brass, stainless steel, and pearl jewelry—should monitor negotiations closely. The extension allows time to stock up ahead of the holiday season, but the situation remains fluid. Buyers should also consider the separate 50 percent tariff on goods imported from India, which adds another layer of cost pressure. Diversifying sourcing or negotiating OEM/ODM contracts with Chinese suppliers that include tariff-sharing clauses may offer some protection.
Compliance and logistics signals
China's Commerce Ministry issued a parallel pause on extra tariffs Tuesday, signaling mutual willingness to negotiate. However, Trump suggested China could reduce its trade deficit through more soybean orders, indicating that trade-offs may extend beyond jewelry. Importers should prepare for potential rapid changes by reviewing supply contracts, exploring bonded warehousing, and staying in close contact with customs brokers to manage duty costs effectively.
Source: Read the original report | Published: August 12, 2025