USPS Reverses Course: Package Deliveries from China and Hong Kong to Continue

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In a surprising turn of events, the United States Postal Service (USPS) announced on February 5, 2025, that it would continue accepting packages from China and Hong Kong despite initially planning a suspension.

The reversal comes in response to widespread concerns over disruptions to e-commerce and international shipping following new trade regulations imposed by the U.S. government.

A Sudden Policy Shift

Just days earlier, the USPS had declared a temporary halt on inbound packages from China and Hong Kong after President Donald Trump issued an executive order eliminating the “de minimis” exemption.

This exemption allowed goods valued under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. The new policy instead imposes a 10% tariff on such goods, requiring stricter customs inspections and tariff collections for millions of parcels arriving daily.

The suspension announcement had sparked alarm among businesses and consumers alike, particularly those who rely on affordable goods shipped directly from Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Shein, Temu, and AliExpress.

However, USPS has now reversed its stance, confirming that it will continue accepting packages while collaborating with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to implement systems for tariff collection without disrupting delivery operations.

Why the Reversal?

According to USPS officials, the decision was made to “ensure continuity of service” for millions of Americans who depend on international shipping.

The postal service acknowledged the logistical challenges posed by the new trade rules but emphasized its commitment to maintaining reliable delivery networks.

“We understand the critical role USPS plays in facilitating global commerce,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

“Our teams are working closely with CBP to streamline processes for tariff collection while minimizing delays for our customers.”

Impact on E-Commerce and Logistics

The move is seen as a lifeline for U.S. consumers and businesses heavily reliant on low-cost imports from China.

With an estimated four million parcels arriving daily from China alone, any prolonged suspension could have disrupted supply chains and driven up costs for retailers and end-users.

However, experts warn that the new customs requirements could still lead to delays as CBP adjusts to processing a higher volume of shipments under formal clearance procedures.

E-commerce giants like Shein may face increased logistical hurdles due to their reliance on direct shipping via USPS, while Temu’s model of bulk shipping through intermediaries may offer it more flexibility in absorbing additional costs.

Industry Concerns

Logistics providers such as FedEx and UPS have also raised concerns about how these changes will ripple through the industry.

With USPS continuing package acceptance, competitors may face pressure to adapt their own processes for handling increased customs scrutiny and tariff compliance.

“The elimination of de minimis is a game-changer,” said one industry analyst. “It’s not just about tariffs—it’s about how quickly companies can adjust their operations to meet these new regulatory demands without alienating customers.”

Looking Ahead

While the USPS’s decision provides temporary relief for consumers and businesses, the long-term implications remain uncertain.

The elimination of duty-free thresholds could lead to higher prices for imported goods, especially if logistics providers pass on additional costs to retailers or customers.

Moreover, with strained relations between the U.S. and China continuing to influence trade policies, further regulatory changes could emerge in the near future.

For now, however, the USPS’s reversal offers reassurance that critical shipping channels will remain open—even as both businesses and government agencies navigate the complexities of implementing new trade rules in real time.

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