The United States Postal Service (USPS) has temporarily suspended the acceptance of parcels from mainland China and Hong Kong, effective until further notice. This suspension does not apply to letter mail, according to a statement from the USPS.
While the USPS has not provided a specific reason for the decision, it follows the imposition of a 10% tariff by former President Donald Trump on all goods imported from China. This tariff also eliminates the “de minimis” tax exemption, which previously allowed items valued at $800 (£641) or less to enter the U.S. without incurring duties or taxes.
The de minimis exemption had been under scrutiny due to the growth of Chinese e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu, which have gained significant popularity among U.S. consumers. Trade expert Deborah Elms noted that the new tariffs would have a particularly large impact on goods that were previously shipped directly from China to the U.S.
A report from a U.S. Congressional committee revealed that nearly half of all parcels entering the U.S. under the de minimis exemption were sent from China. U.S. officials have raised concerns about the challenge of screening the growing volume of parcels for potentially illegal items.
The USPS has not provided additional comment on the situation at this time.
