The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced an immediate suspension of parcel deliveries from mainland China and Hong Kong, citing undisclosed reasons.
The move, which does not affect letters, follows a series of trade measures introduced by former US President Donald Trump against Chinese imports.
The decision comes in the wake of Washington’s imposition of an additional 10 per cent tariff on all goods imported from China. A key provision of Trump’s executive order also eliminates the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed goods worth $800 or less to enter the US duty-free.
The loophole had enabled Chinese e-commerce firms such as Shein and Temu to expand their reach in the US market, prompting calls for regulatory action from American policymakers.
A 2023 report by the US Congressional committee on China revealed that nearly half of all parcels entering the US under de minimis were from China. Officials have expressed concerns that the large volume of packages made it difficult to screen for illicit goods.
In a swift response, Beijing has announced retaliatory tariffs on select US imports. From February 10, China will impose a 15 per cent levy on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) products, while crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine vehicles will be subject to a 10 per cent duty.
The latest trade restrictions have raised concerns over an escalation in economic tensions between the two global powers. Experts say the suspension of postal services could disrupt e-commerce supply chains and further complicate US-China trade relations.
"Trump's tariff changes are especially sharp for goods previously shipped directly via e-commerce from China to the US," said Deborah Elms, a trade analyst.
Meanwhile, former President Trump is expected to hold talks with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, in the coming days to discuss trade and economic matters. Observers remain watchful of whether the two sides can avoid a further deterioration in relations.
