The 90-Day Pause in the Trade War: What Amazon Business Owners Need to Know
The clock is ticking... and if you sell on Amazon, this 90-day pause in the U.S.- China trade war might be the briefest lifeline you’ll get this year.
Three months can feel like nothing (or everything) depending on how you use them.
When the U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day pause in their ongoing trade war, the news barely made a ripple outside the usual political circles. But for Amazon business who rely on Chinese suppliers, this truce is far more than a diplomatic gesture.
It’s a rare moment of clarity…
A chance to regroup, restock, and re-strategize before the next storm hits.
What Actually Happened?
In short: both countries have hit the brakes. New tariff increases have been temporarily suspended. Talks are resuming.
But this isn’t a resolution, it’s just a ceasefire. The underlying tension remains.
What matters is that the next 90 days could shape the profitability (or vulnerability) of your business for the rest of the year.
Why This Pause Matters for Business Owners
1. A Window to Protect Your Margins
With tariffs on hold, your cost of goods might remain stable… for now. That opens the door to restock your best-performing SKUs without unexpected fees eating into your margins.
2. Clarity for Cash Flow
Without the looming threat of immediate cost spikes, you can plan upcoming shipments and inventory cycles with more confidence.
3. Breathing Room to Adjust Strategy
Whether you’ve been meaning to renegotiate supplier terms, audit your HTS codes, or explore new sourcing options, now is the time.
4. Competitive Advantage
The ones who act in this window (while others wait for certainty) will be better positioned when the pause ends.
How Smart Business Owners Are Using This Time
Securing stable quotes and terms from suppliers before negotiations resume
Placing larger orders for proven SKUs to lock in current costs
Diversifying sourcing strategies (China+1) by exploring Vietnam, Mexico, and India
Reclassifying products under more favorable tariff codes where applicable
Negotiating freight terms while shipping lanes remain stable
We talk about this and all new changes affecting Amazon business owners inside of Voltage Business Builders and if you’re are thinking about selling on Amazon or are already doing it, you should grab a time with me (See below) to discuss how would that might look like.
Remember, this isn’t about panic. It’s about preparation.
Common Misconceptions
“This will last.” It likely won’t. The political winds can shift quickly.
“My product isn’t affected.” Many business underestimate indirect exposure, from components to packaging, and if your margins are strong, you’re in a good position but that doesn’t mean it will be like that forever.
“Everyone is waiting.” Some are. But others are already moving.
A Broader Shift Is Underway
Even beyond this 90-day window, the message is clear: business who rely solely on one supplier, one country, or one strategy are taking on more risk than they realize.
We’re entering an era where adaptability matters more than ever.
Nearshoring is accelerating
Lead times and landed costs are no longer predictable constants
Margins will favor those who took the time to future-proof their operations
Final Thought
This pause is not a peace treaty. It’s a temporary breath.
And like every breathing space in business, it’s only useful if you move.
Use these 90 days to strengthen your position… because when the tariffs return (and they might), it won’t be the biggest business who win.
It’ll be the ones who were ready.
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