U.S. appliance giant Whirlpool — whose products are distributed locally by Harvey Norman-owned Arisit — has accused rivals LG Electronics and Samsung of deliberately undervaluing their goods when shipping overseas in order to sidestep tariffs, while still charging full price at retail.

Whirlpool alleges the two South Korean manufacturers began “lowballing” the declared customs value of imported appliances, TVs, and smartphones in June 2025. The company claims U.S. Customs data shows sharp declines in declared values, with washing machines from South Korea plunging from US$838 to just US$73, while gas ranges from Thailand dropped by more than half to US$175.

A Wall Street Journal review also found that average declared values of some Chinese imports fell from US$21 earlier in the year to just US$8 by July. Despite these sharp reductions, Whirlpool notes that consumer prices for the affected products — which face tariffs ranging from 13% to 60% — have not fallen.

The allegations come as Whirlpool’s stock is down 32% and only days after LG Energy Solutions, a subsidiary of LG Group, was accused of employing undocumented workers at its new U.S. battery plant with Hyundai.

Whirlpool says it has raised its concerns with U.S. Customs and the Biden administration but has yet to file a formal complaint. “I would expect this administration to address any customs duty evasion quickly and decisively, and send a message to potential future cheaters,” said Daniel Calhoun, a Whirlpool adviser and former Commerce Department official under President Trump.

U.S. Customs declined to comment but confirmed it takes enforcement action when necessary.

Whirlpool has a track record of challenging rivals over trade practices. In 2018, the company successfully pushed for duties on imported washing machines.

In Australia and New Zealand, Whirlpool products are sold through Arisit, which recently extended its distribution deal through 2026.