WASHINGTON, D.C. — International package deliveries to the United States are facing major disruptions after the Trump administration eliminated a key tariff exemption for goods valued at $800 or less. In response to the policy change, multiple countries have temporarily suspended some of their parcel services to the U.S.
The exemption, known as “de minimis,” allowed goods worth up to $800 to enter the country duty-free and with minimal customs processing. The Trump administration’s executive order, signed in late July, took effect for all countries as of Friday, August 29. The White House stated the change is necessary to combat illicit activities, such as drug trafficking and the import of counterfeit goods, and to protect American businesses.
The decision has caused widespread confusion and logistical challenges for international postal services and shippers. The Universal Postal Union, a United Nations agency, has confirmed that at least 25 member countries have suspended outbound postal services to the U.S.
The list of countries that have paused or limited shipments includes:
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- India
- Italy
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- United Kingdom
Without the de minimis exemption, all international packages will be subject to duties, taxes, and more stringent customs procedures. For six months, some international postal shipments will face a flat duty of $80 to $200, depending on the country of origin.
This change is expected to affect a significant volume of goods. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, more than 1.36 billion de minimis shipments entered the country during the last fiscal year, with the average value of a package being approximately $54. The new rules could lead to increased costs and longer delivery times for consumers and small businesses that rely on international e-commerce.
