Miami, FL – DHL Express has announced a temporary suspension of deliveries to the United States valued at over $800 due to increased customs regulations following the implementation of new tariffs by President Donald Trump. The delivery company cited a surge in formal customs clearances as the reason for the halt in shipments from companies worldwide to American consumers, effective immediately.
While business-to-business deliveries will continue, they may also be subject to delays. Previously, packages valued up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal paperwork. However, stricter customs checks accompanying Trump’s tariff changes have resulted in a reduction of the threshold, causing delays for shipments exceeding $800.
The White House is set to crack down on deliveries valued under $800, particularly those originating from China and Hong Kong, on May 2nd when a loophole allowing low-value packages to enter the US without duties will be closed. Popular retailers like Shein and Temu have expressed concerns over potential price increases due to the recent global trade policy adjustments.
In response to the new regulations, Hongkong Post has announced a halt in sea shipments to the US and will no longer accept parcels bound for America starting on April 27th. The move was described as “unreasonable” and “abusive” by the organization, pointing to the escalating tensions over trade policies between the US and China.
President Trump’s administration has justified the measures by claiming that some Chinese shippers engage in deceptive practices to smuggle illicit substances, particularly synthetic opioids, into the US. This, according to the White House, plays a significant role in the opioid crisis gripping the nation. On the other hand, Beijing has refuted the allegations, asserting that the opioid crisis is a domestic issue for the US and that China maintains strict drug policies.
The suspension of deliveries by DHL Express and Hongkong Post signals the growing impact of trade tensions between the US and China, with both countries taking measures to protect their interests in response to tariff changes and customs regulations. The situation underscores the complexities of global trade relations and the challenges faced by businesses and consumers amidst the evolving trade landscape.