In a dramatic development that marks a new low in U.S.-Hong Kong trade relations, Hongkong Post has announced the suspension of all postal parcel services containing goods to the United States.
The move comes in direct response to sweeping new U.S. tariff policies targeting small-value imports from Hong Kong.
Effective immediately, the city’s postal authority will stop accepting surface mail parcels destined for the U.S., while airmail parcels will only be processed until April 27.
The decision follows the U.S. government’s planned cancellation of the longstanding “de minimis” exemption for Hong Kong parcels valued under $800, replacing it with a punitive 120% import tariff, set to take effect May 2.
“This is a retaliatory and unreasonable trade barrier,” Hongkong Post said in a statement. “We refuse to become a collection agent for a discriminatory tariff regime that directly undermines fair trade and hurts everyday consumers.”
The suspension does not affect document-only mail, which will continue as usual. However, packages containing commercial goods — including e-commerce orders, gifts, and samples — will no longer be accepted for U.S. delivery through the postal network.
U.S. Policy Shifts Prompt Strong Local Backlash
The U.S. policy change is part of a broader realignment of trade rules that began after Washington revoked Hong Kong’s special trading status in 2020. While U.S. officials have framed the new tariffs as necessary to protect American manufacturing and address alleged abuses of the de minimis loophole, Hong Kong authorities argue the measures are politically motivated and designed to isolate the territory economically.
In a rare public rebuke, the Hong Kong government described the tariff shift as “an unjustified act of economic coercion” and signaled its intention to file a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization.
E-Commerce and Small Businesses Hit Hard
The fallout is expected to be most severe for small businesses and online sellers who rely on affordable postal shipping to reach U.S. customers. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and AliExpress — where Hong Kong-based vendors play a significant role — are bracing for disruption.
“This policy shift is a devastating blow,” said Ada Yuen, founder of a Hong Kong-based boutique stationery brand. “Eighty percent of our international customers are in the U.S., and we depend on low-cost postal services. This puts our entire business model at risk.”
Calls for Alternative Shipping Channels
Logistics experts predict a short-term scramble among exporters to find alternative couriers, many of which already charge significantly more for similar deliveries. Some express parcel services will remain available, but at a cost that may be unsustainable for low-margin businesses.
Hongkong Post has advised affected customers to explore commercial courier services or consolidate shipments through freight forwarding firms.
What’s Next?
With rising global tensions and increased trade barriers, analysts say this latest standoff may not be the last. For now, Hong Kong exporters are left navigating uncertain waters — and many fear that the damage to trust, trade, and economic opportunity could be long-lasting.
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