The change disrupts small-dollar commerce and gift-giving, which drove an estimated 1.3 billion packages into the US last year—60% from China
European postal agencies are pausing or cutting shipments to the US this week, as the de minimis tariff exemption officially ends.
The exemption had allowed goods worth $800 or less to enter America duty-free.
President Donald Trump revoked it in July, expanding an earlier decision that targeted only China. Starting August 29, all countries will face the new rules.
The change disrupts small-dollar commerce and gift-giving, which drove an estimated 1.3 billion packages into the US last year—60% from China.
PostEurop reported at least 16 national carriers suspending or restricting services. The UK’s Royal Mail will stop shipments on Tuesday, Belgium’s Bpost paused on August 23, and Germany’s Deutsche Post followed on August 22.
France, Austria, Greece, and Nordic nations also expect delays. Discount retailers like Shein and Temu already face higher shipping costs.