In a move that signals escalating trade tensions, the United States Postal Service has announced a temporary suspension of parcel shipments from mainland China and Hong Kong.
While the decision does not affect letters, it remains unclear how long the suspension will last, as USPS has not provided a specific reason for the move.
The suspension comes just days after US President Donald Trump imposed a fresh 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, eliminating a long-standing exemption that allowed duty-free entry for goods valued at $800 or less.
For years, Chinese e-commerce giants like Shein and Temu have leveraged this loophole to flood the US market with low-cost goods.
However, US officials argue that the volume of parcels entering under this system made it harder to inspect shipments for counterfeit or illegal products.
“Trump’s tariff changes are especially sharp for goods that were previously shipped via e-commerce directly from China to the US,” said trade expert Deborah Elms.
In response, China has announced new tariffs on US imports, set to take effect from February 10. Coal and liquefied natural gas will be taxed at 15%, while crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine cars will face a 10% tariff.
With both economic giants locked in a tit-for-tat trade dispute, President Trump is expected to speak with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in the coming days, though it remains uncertain whether the talks will ease tensions.
