Amazon cancels orders from China, Asia to curb impact of new US tariffs

Amazon hasn't commented, but timing of order cuts suggests it's reacting to rising costs from new trade tariffs

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Amazon has cancelled several inventory orders from China and other Asian nations in what appears to be a strategic move to limit exposure to newly imposed U.S. tariffs, according to a report by Bloomberg News.

Documents reviewed by Bloomberg suggest that the e-commerce giant halted purchases of various goods—including beach chairs, scooters, and air conditioners—from vendors based in China, Vietnam, and Thailand. The move follows President Donald Trump’s announcement on April 2 of sweeping tariff hikes affecting more than 180 countries and territories, with import duties on Chinese goods rising to 104%.

While Amazon has not officially commented on the cancellations, the timing has prompted speculation that the company is reacting to increased costs stemming from the trade measures.

The US -China tariff dispute intensified further on April 9, when China responded with retaliatory duties, raising tariffs on US imports from 34% to 84%. Beijing vowed to “fight to the end” against the aggressive American trade policy.

Amazon has long relied on a "direct import orders" model—buying inventory in bulk directly from manufacturers abroad and shipping to its US warehouses. This method has historically allowed Amazon to minimize shipping costs and tariffs. With new duties now in effect, vendors may be forced to shoulder the increased financial burden instead.

The extent of the order cancellations remains unclear, and it is not yet known how many vendors or product categories may ultimately be affected.