The disruption follows Washington’s decision to suspend the long-standing “de minimis” exemption, a rule that allowed small parcels to enter the US with minimal paperwork and no tariffs. From August 29, even low-value items will face full customs procedures, leaving international postal services and businesses scrambling to adjust.
Trade analysts warn the sudden change could unsettle global supply chains and raise costs for small businesses and consumers. “Tariffs are a major cost in international trade. When rules are altered abruptly, the impact spreads quickly across borders,” a Chinese trade expert said.
For many small exporters, particularly in Asia, the US market has relied heavily on this exemption to keep prices competitive. Without it, everyday goods such as clothing, electronics accessories, and household items may become more expensive for American buyers.
The move is already being felt as postal authorities in several countries suspend or scale back shipments until clear customs guidelines are provided. Industry watchers say the uncertainty could trigger delivery delays, higher shipping costs, and lost revenue for small businesses that depend on e-commerce exports.
