Postal services suspend shipments to U.S. over new tariffs

Starting August 23, 2025, multiple postal services across Europe and India announced the suspension of many package shipments to the United States in response to newly implemented import tariffs. This robust action follows the expiration of the de minimis tariff exemption established by President Donald Trump in July 2025, which previously allowed low-cost packages valued under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. As a result, postal services from countries including Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, France, Austria, and the United Kingdom have had to take immediate measures to comply with unclear and potentially burdensome regulations regarding tariff collection. In Germany, Deutsche Post and DHL Parcel Germany have ceased accepting packages from business customers bound for the U.S., while Italy's Poste Italiane has also suspended acceptance of shipments containing goods. On August 29, 2025, new import duties of up to 15% will come into effect for most products from the European Union, complicating further the packages sent to the U.S. The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs and regulations has caused major disruptions in mail services, with postal agencies unable to guarantee timely delivery before the new duties are enforced. India’s postal service is similarly suspending deliveries, effective August 24, 2025, although letters, documents, and gift parcels valued at under $100 will continue to be shipped. The lack of clarity from U.S. customs regarding how and when duties would be assessed has led to widespread confusion and the need for postal services to pause shipments until clearer guidelines are provided. This collective action not only affects international shipping logistics but could also impede trade relations and customer satisfaction across these regions. Authorities in these countries are working to develop a better understanding of the new tariffs and the administrative processes required for compliance. As the United States presses forward with these new tariff rules, many postal services and agencies continue to face operational disruptions as they adapt to the evolving landscape of international shipping. Without a resolution by August 29, it is likely that other postal operators will join in the suspension of shipments to the U.S., heightening the volume of packages left unshipped and risking economic repercussions on affected businesses and consumers alike.