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The End of the $800 De Minimis Rule: What It Means for Businesses, Hotels, and Consumers

Leekong Hotel bathroom soap dispenser manufacturer, accepts ODM&OEM and unique customization services

The End of the $800 De Minimis Rule: What It Means for Businesses, Hotels, and Consumers Introduction

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to terminate the de minimis rule, which allowed imported goods valued under $800 to enter the U.S. without tariffs or extensive customs scrutiny. This policy change has far-reaching implications for businesses, particularly those reliant on low-cost imports—such as hotels stocking soap dispensers and other amenities.

The change to the “de minimis” exemption was first implemented on goods from the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong in May, as China is the largest source of these shipments.

Low-cost online stores like Shein and Temu, both extremely popular with shoppers in the US and worldwide, were among those that would likely be directly affected, warned Z. John Zhang, a professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

But Zhang told China Daily that the recent rule change will also hit many other businesses in China that do business with the US, as it’s “not just fast fashion in this case, it’s really all kinds of goods under the value of $800”.

This policy has had an impact on many manufacturers in China, such as Leekong, a Chinese manufacturing tycoon whose company supplies millions of soap dispensers to American hotels. With the de minimis loophole closed, businesses like his will face higher costs, logistical hurdles, and potential shifts in supply chains.

In this blog post, we’ll explore:

– The history and purpose of the de minimis rule

– Why Trump moved to eliminate it

– The impact on hotels, soap dispenser suppliers, and manufacturers like Leekong

– Alternative strategies for businesses to adapt

  1. What Was the De Minimis Rule?

The de minimis threshold (Latin for “minimal things”) allowed shipments valued at less than $800 to enter the U.S. tax-free and with minimal customs checks. Established under the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015, this rule was designed to:

– Speed up e-commerce deliveries (e.g., Amazon, AliExpress, Wish)

– Reduce administrative burdens on small businesses and customs

– Encourage cross-border trade, particularly from China

For years, companies—especially those importing small, low-cost items like soap dispensers, toiletries, and electronics—relied on this rule to keep costs low.

Key Impacts of the De Minimis Rule Termination

  1. E-Commerce & Small Businesses

Higher Costs for Consumers: Online shoppers will pay $80–$200 extra per international order.

Small Businesses Squeezed: U.S. and Canadian sellers (e.g., Etsy shops) lose cost advantages, facing new paperwork and delays.

Chinese E-Commerce Giants Hit: Temu and Shein, which relied on direct-to-consumer shipping, must restructure supply chains or absorb 54–120% tariffs.

  1. Hotels & Soap Dispenser Suppliers

Bulk Importers Face Tariffs: Hotels sourcing cheap soap dispensers, toiletries, and linens from China will see 25%+ cost increases.

Supply Chain Shifts: Manufacturers like Lee Kong may relocate production to Vietnam or Mexico to avoid tariffs.

  1. Global Trade & Geopolitical Fallout

China’s Export Model Disrupted: The $800 loophole was a key enabler of China’s “white-label” e-commerce boom.

U.S. Inflation Risks: Low-cost goods (e.g., $7 T-shirts, $60 board games) will become more expensive.

Trade War Escalation: The move intensifies U.S.-China tensions, alongside existing 24% suspended tariffs.

  1. Why Did Trump End It?

Trump’s decision to scrap the $800 exemption aligns with his broader “America First” trade policies, including:

– Tariffs on Chinese goods (starting in 2018)

– Crackdown on customs loopholes that benefited foreign manufacturers

– Encouraging domestic production over reliance on imports

Key Reasons for Termination:

Preventing Abuse: Many Chinese sellers (including Leekong’s soap dispenser empire) exploited the rule by shipping bulk orders in small, separate packages to avoid tariffs.

Protecting U.S. Manufacturers: Domestic producers argued that the rule gave foreign competitors an unfair advantage.

Revenue Generation: The U.S. government loses billions in potential tariffs annually due to de minimis exemptions.

  1. Impact on Hotels & Soap Dispenser Suppliers
  2. Higher Costs for Hotels

Hotels rely on cheap, bulk-purchased amenities—soap dispensers, shampoos, towels—often imported from China. Without the $800 exemption:

– Prices per unit will rise (due to tariffs + customs fees)

– Supply chain delays (more inspections = slower deliveries)

– Possible switch to domestic suppliers (but at higher costs)

Case Study: Leekong’s Soap Dispenser Business  

Leekong’s company supplies millions of soap dispensers to U.S. hotels annually. Under the old rule, he could ship hundreds of small packages tariff-free. Now:

– Each shipment may incur 25%+ tariffs (Trump’s China rates)

– Profit margins shrink, forcing price hikes

– Competitiveness drops vs. U.S.-made alternatives

  1. Shift in Supply Chains

Some businesses may:

– Relocate production to tariff-exempt countries (Vietnam, Mexico)

– Stockpile inventory before full policy enforcement

– Invest in automation to offset rising costs

  1. How Businesses Can Adapt
  2. Alternative Sourcing Strategies

– Nearshoring: Partner with Mexican or Central American suppliers.

– Diversify Suppliers: Avoid over-reliance on China (e.g., look to India, Thailand).

– Bulk Shipping: Consolidate orders to reduce per-unit tariffs.

  1. Lobbying & Policy Influence

– Industry groups (e.g., American Hotel & Lodging Association) may push for exemptions.

– Legal challenges could delay enforcement.

  1. Passing Costs to Consumers  

– Hotels may charge higher rates or cut back on free amenities.

– E-commerce sellers (Amazon, eBay) will raise prices.

  1. Conclusion: A New Era for Trade

The end of the $800 de minimis rule marks a significant shift in U.S. trade policy—one that benefits domestic manufacturers but strains import-dependent businesses. For hotels, soap dispenser suppliers like Lee Kong, and e-commerce sellers, adaptation is crucial.

Will companies absorb the costs, pass them to consumers, or relocate production? Only time will tell. One thing is certain: global trade will never be the same.

Final Thoughts

In fiscal year 2024, $64.6 billion worth of goods in over 1.36 billion small shipments were utilized de minimis, according to Yale University and US Customs and Border Protection.

Now, all countries that send items to US customers or businesses outside of the international postal network will be subject to the rule change starting on Aug 29, Trump’s executive order stated on Wednesday. Trump’s de minimis termination reshapes global e-commerce, forcing businesses to rethink supply chains, pricing, and market strategies. While it protects U.S. manufacturers, consumers and small importers face higher costs and delays.

Will this policy backfire by fueling inflation? Or will it successfully bring manufacturing back to America? The answer may determine its political and economic legacy.

– For consumers: Expect higher prices on small imported goods.

– For businesses: Rethink supply chains and pricing strategies.

– For policymakers: Balance protectionism with economic efficiency.

What do you think? Will killing the de minimis rule help or hurt the U.S. economy? Let’s discuss in the comments!

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The Future of Hygiene: How Smart Soap Dispensers and Hotels Are Redefining Cleanliness

The Future of Hygiene: How Smart Soap Dispensers and Hotels Are Redefining Cleanliness

According to the World Health Organization’s “World Health Statistics 2025”, the global average life expectancy dropped by 1.8 years between 2019 and 2021, the largest decline in modern history, reversing the health progress of the past decade. In the wake of heightened health awareness in today’s world, hygiene has become a top priority, especially in shared spaces like hotels and public bathrooms. With increasing awareness of bacteria, viruses, and cross-contamination risks, innovative solutions such as Leekong soap dispensers, advanced cleaning protocols, and sustainable bathroom products are transforming how we maintain cleanliness. From Leekong soap dispensers to eco-friendly shampoo solutions, the bathroom is undergoing a technological and sustainable transformation. This blog explores how innovation is redefining cleanliness in hospitality, ensuring safer stays for guests worldwide.

1. The Rise of Smart Soap Dispensers: Leekong’s Innovation

One of the most significant advancements in hygiene technology is the automatic soap dispenser, such as those produced by Leekong. Unlike traditional piston-based dispensers, which struggle with viscosity changes in soap due to temperature fluctuations, Leekong’s models use peristaltic pump technology to ensure consistent soap output regardless of environmental conditions. This design also reduces noise (below 60 decibels) and minimizes contamination since the soap never touches internal machine parts, making it ideal for hospitals, hotels, and public restrooms.

Additionally, these dispensers are eco-friendly, as they eliminate unnecessary plastic waste from disposable soap bottles. With features like adjustable soap volume and touchless operation, they help reduce germ transmission—a crucial factor in post-pandemic hygiene standards.

What’s more, a touchless hygiene breakthrough in soap dispenser.

One of the most impactful innovations is the Automatic Soap Dispenser, a touchless system designed for high-traffic areas like hotel bathrooms. Unlike traditional dispensers, technology offers:

Peristaltic Pump Mechanism – Ensures consistent soap flow without clogging, even with thick liquids like sanitizer.

Germ-Free Operation – Soap never touches internal parts, preventing contamination.

Eco-Friendly Design – Reduces plastic waste by using refillable containers.

Quiet & Efficient – Operates below 60 decibels, making it ideal for luxury hotels.

Hotels adopting these dispensers report higher guest satisfaction, as travelers increasingly prioritize hygiene in their stay experience.

2. Hotel Hygiene: A Growing Concern

The Problem with Traditional Hotel Hygiene

The hotel has always adhered to what they call hygiene standards and they have long faced scrutiny over cleanliness. However, with an increasing number of complaints from customers regarding hotel hygiene, investigations into hotel hygiene have been carried out around the world. Eventually, the research has revealed a shocking fact and with reports revealing shocking practices like using the same towel to clean toilets and cups. Studies show that even after washing, towels can harbor dangerous bacteria like Bacillus cereus, which can survive harsh cleaning processes.

– Reused towels often harbor bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus even after washing.

– Manual soap dispensers can become breeding grounds for germs due to frequent contact.

– Single-use plastic shampoo bottles contribute to massive environmental waste—millions end up in landfills yearly.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in late 2019, fundamentally altered the world’s approach to hygiene and public health. Healthy life expectancy (HALE) decreased by six weeks due to the increase in COVID-19-related anxiety and depression, offtaking part of the benefits from the decline in non-communicable disease mortality. By 2025, its effects are still evident—from touchless soap dispensers in hotels to stricter sanitation protocols in bathrooms worldwide. It’s prompting hotels to seek smarter, more sustainable solutions.

To combat this, many hotels now implement strict sanitization protocols:

– Daily disinfection of high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, remote controls) with chlorine-based solutions.

– Sealed packaging for towels and linens to reassure guests of cleanliness.

– UV sterilization and hospital-grade cleaning for bathrooms to eliminate pathogens.

However, guests can take extra precautions by:

– Bringing their own towels and toiletries.

– Avoiding direct contact with bathroom surfaces and using disinfectant wipes.

– Choosing hotels that prioritize hygiene certifications and transparent cleaning practices.

3. The Role of Shampoo and Bathroom Products in Hygiene

Beyond soap dispensers, shampoo and body wash play a role in maintaining hygiene. However, traditional plastic shampoo bottles contribute to environmental waste. Innovators like SOAPBOTTLE have introduced dissolvable soap packaging, where the container itself is made of soap and can be used until it dissolves—eliminating plastic waste entirely.

Hotels are also shifting toward bulk dispensers for shampoo and conditioner, reducing single-use plastic while ensuring consistent hygiene standards. This approach not only cuts costs but also aligns with sustainability trends.

4. The Hotel Bathroom: A New Frontier for Hygiene Tech

Beyond soap, hotels are upgrading entire bathroom experiences with:

  1. Antimicrobial Surfaces

– Copper-infused countertops and self-cleaning tiles reduce bacterial growth.

– UV-C light sanitizers automatically disinfect sinks and toilets between uses.

  1. Smart Showers & Water Conservation

– Digital temperature control minimizes contact with handles.

– Water-recycling systems filter and reuse shower water, appealing to eco-conscious guests.

  1. Sustainable Shampoo & Toiletry Solutions

– Bulk dispensers replace single-use plastic bottles, cutting waste by up to 80%.

– Solid shampoo bars (like those from Lush) eliminate packaging entirely.

– Dissolvable soap containers (e.g., SOAPBOTTLE) turn into usable soap, leaving zero waste

Guest Expectations: Hygiene as a Deciding Factor

A 2023 survey by Hotel Management found:

– 72% of travelers choose hotels based on cleanliness ratings.

– 65%= prefer touchless amenities (e.g., automatic soap dispensers, motion-sensor faucets).

– 58% would pay more for a room with verified hygiene certifications (e.g., GBAC STAR).

Hotels like Marriott and Hilton now advertise their hygiene protocols prominently, showcasing partnerships with brands like Leekong to build trust.

5. The Future: Combining Technology and Sustainability and Where Technology Meets Sustainability

As hygiene expectations rise, the future will likely see:

– More touchless technology (like Leekong’s dispensers) in bathrooms.

– AI-powered cleaning robots in hotels to ensure consistent sanitation.

– Biodegradable and self-cleaning materials for towels and surfaces.

The next wave of hotel hygiene includes:

– AI Cleaning Robots – Autonomous devices that sanitize bathrooms post-checkout.

– Biodegradable Linens – Towels and robes made from antimicrobial bamboo fibers.

– Voice-Activated Amenities – “Hey Google, dispense soap” could replace physical contact entirely.

Conclusion

From smart soap dispensers to hotel hygiene overhauls, our awareness of hygiene and cleanliness is constantly improving and the way we approach cleanliness is evolving. By embracing technology, stricter protocols, and sustainable alternatives, we can create safer, more hygienic spaces—whether in hotels, public restrooms, or our own homes.

What’s Your Take?

– Would you trust a touchless dispenser over a traditional one?

– Do you bring your own toiletries when traveling?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Soap Dispenser has come up with new requirements to supplier

It’s always necessary to shake hands and exchange greetings with others, but after the exchange, it’s time to clean your hands. In this case, most people simply wipe it with a handkerchief or paper towel. Whether it is clean or not is next, and what they seek is a sense of peace of mind. But this is really bad. It’s easy to use hand disinfectors to solve this problem at one time.

There is a saying spread abroad: what you eat is what you eat. Correspondingly, there is also a saying in China that illness comes from the mouth. That is to say, most of the time, the food we eat determines our health. Often, food is originally clean, but because we have bacteria on our hands, food is infected. This will cause these bacteria to enter the body and pose a certain degree of threat to our life and health. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to the health of hands in daily life. With the development of science and technology, there are instruments specially disinfected by rivals in the market. Automatic induction hand sterilizer is one kind. What are the advantages and characteristics of automatic induction hand sterilizer?

With the continuous improvement of China’s position in the world, more and more countries in most countries began to use Chinese soap products, which reflected the development of China’s soap products to a certain extent. In the future, the soap dispenser industry will present six development trends under the new situation:

  1. In recent years, with the continuous development of economy, China’s stainless steel soap dispenser tool processing industry has gradually become the main force of the world soap dispenser tool industry. The demand for soap dispenser tools in some developed countries, especially in developing countries such as Africa and the Middle East, is increasing by more than 10% every year.
  2. The requirements of the international market for domestic soap dispenser products will also gradually develop and change, and there will be higher requirements for the quality, packaging and delivery period of Chinese products, and even gradually extend to the production process and product research and development, combining products with environmental protection, energy resources and human environment. The huge market and central position will further attract multinational soap dispenser manufacturing centers to China.
  3. With the increasing competition in most countries, industrial capital has become an important theme of industry operation in order to improve competitiveness
  4. Provide a platform for the new sales model. At the Shanghai Soap Dispenser exhibition, a new kind of distributor appeared. They are opening a new soap dispenser business competition with one-stop product distribution as the core, national chain as the business model, unified logistics distribution and after-sales service as the characteristics, and capital as the stick. Although this is only a beginning, it more represents a trend. The new model pays more attention to peace, system and service.
  5. Develop e-commerce. In the field of e-commerce, the driving force of this innovation is even stronger. If traditional traders still stay, with the continuous improvement of China’s position in the world, more and more countries in most countries begin to use Chinese soap products, which reflects the development of China’s soap products to a certain extent. In the future, the soap dispenser industry will present six development trends under the new situation:

On the old topic of whether e-commerce is suitable for the circulation and sales of soap dispensers, all we have to wait for is to be eliminated. As a business, there is no strength and ability to develop a huge e-commerce platform, which is what operators need to do.

The trend of soap dispenser Market in the future is “big website, small entity”. Due to the large number of domestic soap dispenser brands and manufacturers, and the fierce market competition, many soap dispenser small and medium-sized enterprises cannot form brands and scale benefits due to the constraints of capital, resources, scale, technology and other conditions, and it is difficult to effectively resolve the market difficulties. They are not only unable to compete with reliable brands in terms of comprehensive strength, but also in danger of being involved in homogeneous low-cost competition.

Under multiple pressures, many small and medium-sized soap dispenser enterprises have to try to develop new marketing models and channels to survive and develop. Today, with the gradual popularization of the Internet, the network platform has been favored by many enterprises with its advantages of rich information, rapid dissemination, low cost and high reporting, and the e-commerce industry is becoming more and more prosperous. It can be seen that the era of e-commerce is still coming, and the network has become one of the ways for small and medium-sized enterprises of soap dispensers to explore the market and enhance brand influence.

Soap dispenser is the general name of the machine that supplies soap liquid for cleaning. With the need of modernization, people begin to demand advanced cleaning products. Since ancient times, people have used salt to brush their teeth. Nowadays, people generally use chemicals to maintain their cleanliness.

At present, the automatic induction soap dispenser has completely replaced the traditional soap in all walks of life. The main reason for this is the convenience of the automatic induction soap machine and its reasonable commercial value. The main thing is that the automatic soap dispenser can avoid the cross infection caused by employees contacting soap.

Today’s hand disinfection equipment companies are blooming, and there are many of them. Of course, there are also typical garbage enterprises. Consumers should learn to consume rationally.

For example, the automatic induction soap dispenser of China Leekong is widely used in domestic and foreign markets because of its strong adaptability. This automatic induction soap dispenser produced by our company uses ABS plastic as its shell, which is suitable for all kinds of soap liquids, such as liquid soap, skin lotion, shampoo, detergent, etc., to facilitate the needs of different enterprises for soap liquids. At the same time, the machine will not be corroded by the chemical factors in the soap.

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