Tomorrow the federal government is set to impose a tax on online purchases valued at $800 or less, based on an executive order President Donald Trump signed several weeks ago. Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner called on the White House to rescind the order and lift the tax that could raise retail prices by between $80-$200 on more than one billion consumer purchases that enter the United States each year.
Treasurer Steiner said:
“Oregonians are struggling to keep pace with rising prices driven by the White House’s effort to punish trade partners through new taxes imposed on their products. But Americans are paying the cost. Americans who go online to buy clothes, consumer electronics, household goods and other everyday items will now be hit with this staggering, unnecessary tax hike. Small businesses will pay more for supplies. Countries around the world have held up packages that were on their way to the United States. At a time when the household budgets of many families are being strained by back-to-school purchases, families can’t afford to bear the brunt of the White House’s reckless, disruptive and inflationary trade policies. I urge the administration and Congress to rescind this tax, which risks pushing prices higher.”
On July 30, 2025, the White House issued an executive order that suspended the de minimis rule, which exempts products worth less than $800 from tariffs. The tax will have a disproportionate effect on low-income families who rely on online sites to find more affordable purchasing options for everyday goods such as apparel, beauty supplies, phone chargers and other popular items.
Communications Director
Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner
503-559-4624
http://www.oregon.gov/treasury
