The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced that it will no longer accept packages from mainland China and Hong Kong until further notice.
According to a statement on their website, this suspension does not apply to letters.
While USPS did not provide a specific reason for this action, it follows the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to impose an additional 10% tariff on all imports from China.
Additionally, Trump’s executive order has removed an exemption that previously allowed goods valued at $800 (£641) or less to enter the US without incurring duties or certain taxes.
This de minimis tax loophole has come under increased scrutiny, particularly as Chinese e-commerce companies like Shein and Temu have utilized it to reach a vast number of US consumers.
In retaliation, China has announced it will impose tariffs on certain US imports. Starting February 10, coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) will be subject to a 15% tariff, while crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine vehicles will face a 10% levy.
President Trump is anticipated to have discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the near future.
Trade expert Deborah Elms noted that the impact of Trump’s tariff changes is particularly significant for goods that were previously shipped directly from China to the US via e-commerce.
A 2023 report from the US Congressional committee on China indicated that nearly half of all parcels entering the US under the de minimis exemption originated from China.
US officials have expressed concerns that the high volume of parcels entering the country through this exemption has made it increasingly challenging to screen for potentially illegal items.
The BBC has reached out to USPS for further clarification regarding this decision.
