As the holiday shopping season approaches, many U.S. consumers are facing unexpected import fees and tariffs on packages ordered from overseas. Shoppers are reporting surprise costs exceeding $100, creating challenges for both consumers and sellers in other countries who struggle to maintain their U.S. customer base. The recent end of the de minimis exemption has compounded these issues, impacting small businesses reliant on cross-border sales and leading them to choose between paying high duties or risking a loss of sales. International sellers are fighting to adapt and retain U.S. shoppers amid rising tariffs and heightened competition, posing a significant hurdle as the holiday season begins.