USPS Stops Processing Packages from China, Hong Kong After Trump Tariffs
The United States Postal Service (USPS) announced on February 4 that it was suspending the acceptance of packages sent from China and Hong Kong until further notice, according to CBS News.
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The suspension is effective immediately, USPS said. Letters and flat packages are not affected by the restriction.
The Postal Service did not give a reason for the suspension or say how long it would last.
On the subject: Tariffs to be lifted: Canada and Mexico reach agreement with Trump
Beijing announced on February 4 that it would impose retaliatory tariffs in response to President Trump’s 10 percent tariffs on Chinese goods. China had threatened to impose a 3 percent tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 15 percent tariff on crude oil, farm machinery, and large-engine vehicles imported from the United States starting February 10.
Trump’s tariff hikes eliminated a de minimis exemption for low-value packages coming from China. The de minimis exception allowed goods worth up to $800 to enter the U.S. without paying duties or certain taxes. (The de minimis exception is a legal principle that minor or immaterial violations, expenses, or errors can be overlooked by law or regulators. – Note.)
However, in recent years this exception has come under criticism due to an increase in the number of shipments claiming it.
U.S. officials have cited the rise of Chinese online retailers Shein and Temu as a key factor in the increase. The ban, which was imposed on Feb. 4, could delay U.S.-bound package deliveries from both companies.
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U.S. officials said the increase in shipments was making it more difficult to screen goods for security threats.
Trump said he plans to hold talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in the coming days.
Read also on ForumDaily:
Trump has divided North America: Canada and Mexico impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods
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