US Ends Global De Minimis Exemption for Imports

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order ending the de minimis exemption for low-value imports, extending the policy globally instead of only targeting China and Hong Kong. Effective August 29, all shipments valued at $800 or less entering the U.S. will be subject to duties, directly impacting ecommerce companies such as Shein, Temu, Amazon, and eBay. Non-postal shipments will face country-specific tariffs, while international postal shipments will incur a flat duty of $80-$200 per item for six months before shifting to ad valorem tariffs. Exemptions now allow U.S. travelers to bring in up to $200 in personal goods and bona fide gifts up to $100 duty-free. The administration stated the move addresses tariff evasion and the importation of unsafe or illegal goods, including synthetic opioids. Industry experts expect increased costs for consumers and sellers, as well as a surge in inventory clearance before the order takes effect.