At Least 25 Countries Suspend Package Deliveries to US Over New Tariffs

In response to the U.S. government's removal of the de minimis exemption on August 29, which eliminated duty-free entry for packages valued under $100 or $800 depending on previous rules, at least 25 countries including Singapore, Russia, Bermuda, and multiple European nations have suspended or altered postal services for packages sent to the United States. Singapore Post introduced Speedpost Direct International, a corporate service with delivery duty paid, to comply with the new U.S. regulations, offering cost savings but longer transit times compared to previous services. Many postal operators worldwide have temporarily halted shipments of goods subject to U.S. Customs import duties due to uncertainties about how tariffs will be assessed and collected, as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has not finalized procedures or designated qualified parties to handle these duties. While letter mail and certain small personal gifts remain unaffected, the global postal network faces significant operational challenges adjusting to these changes, and suspensions will continue until more clarity is provided. Postal authorities emphasize the temporary nature of these suspensions and are monitoring developments to restore full service as soon as possible, urging customers to stay informed of official updates.