US Postal Service stops accepting parcels from China and Hong Kong

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced that it has temporarily suspended the acceptance of parcels from mainland China and Hong Kong.

According to a statement released on the company's website, the service suspension does not affect the delivery of letters. The USPS stated that the suspension will "remain in effect until further notice" but did not specify the reason for the decision. This sudden halt has raised concerns about potential disruptions in international shipping.

Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all goods imported into the United States from China. Trump's executive order eliminated an exemption that allowed goods valued at $800 (£641) or less to enter the U.S. duty-free or exempt from certain taxes. In recent years, this loophole has faced increasing scrutiny, as Chinese e-commerce giants like Shein and Temu have exploited this so-called "de minimis" tax loophole to reach millions of American customers. The elimination of this exemption is expected to significantly impact these companies.

In response, China has stated that it will impose tariffs on some U.S. imports. Starting February 10, coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) products will face a 15% tax. Crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-displacement vehicles will face a 10% tariff. These retaliatory measures indicate a further escalation in trade tensions.

Trade expert Deborah Elms stated, "Trump's tariff adjustment is particularly drastic if goods were previously shipped directly from China to the U.S. via e-commerce." According to a 2023 report by the U.S. Congressional China Commission, nearly half of the packages entering the U.S. through the de minimis rule originated from China. U.S. officials have noted that the large volume of packages entering the U.S. through this exemption makes it increasingly difficult to screen for potentially illicit goods, further justifying the recent policy changes.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has contacted the United States Postal Service, requesting more details regarding the decision. The public awaits further clarification to fully understand the implications of this suspension.