The U.S. Postal Service Reverses Ban on Chinese Parcels
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has reversed its ban on parcels from China and Hong Kong, which was announced just a day earlier. The USPS will now work with Customs and Border Protection to implement a Chinese tariff collection process to limit delivery disruptions.
President Donald Trump also moved to close the "de minimus" provision, which allowed Chinese-owned e-commerce companies like Shein and Temu to ship packages under $800 into the U.S. duty-free. This rule will remain in place.
The changes come as Trump's 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods went into effect on Tuesday. The White House threatened to impose levies over the weekend in an attempt to curb the flow of fentanyl into the U.S.
Americans are expected to see prices rise across industries unless a trade deal is struck between the two superpowers.
China Responds with Retaliatory Tariffs
In response to the import taxes, China's foreign ministry announced Tuesday it would impose retaliatory tariffs on coal, liquefied natural gas, oil, agricultural equipment, and large-engine cars imported from the U.S. China also said it would investigate U.S. tech giant Google and PVH Corp, the fashion group that owns Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein.
China's government said the measures were in response to Washington's "unilateral tariff hike." It said it would also file a complaint with the World Trade Organization over the "malicious" levies.
Trade War Escalates
Trump maintains that he is in "no rush" to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping to resolve the new trade war between the world's two largest economies. The two leaders are, however, expected to speak in the coming days.
The Customs and Border Protection issued guidance for shippers on Monday on navigating the trade restrictions ahead of the tariffs being imposed.
10 Comments
Comandante
“Finally, a move that aligns with our overall trade strategy. Adjusting the Chinese parcel rules under customs oversight shows a smart approach.”
Marishka
“The tariff actions and policy reversals may be tough, but sometimes you need strong measures to safeguard our economy.”
Pupsik
“Good on the USPS for being flexible. Working with Customs on collecting Chinese tariffs seems like an effective compromise.”
Marishka
“It’s about time we took a stand. Limiting duty-free shipments is a fair way to level the playing field.”
Pupsik
“The constant switch-ups on trade with China aren’t protecting our economy; they’re jeopardizing it.”
ZmeeLove
“The collaboration between USPS and Customs is a smart way to ensure that trade is monitored and controlled properly.”
Bella Ciao
“This shift in policy shows that we’re not backing down when it comes to addressing our trade imbalance.”
Muchacha
“Sometimes tough decisions have to be made, and reversing the ban with clear direction is a pragmatic move.”
ZmeeLove
we need reciprocity in trade agreements. Our policies are adapting to meet that challenge.”
Coccinella
“The reversal undermines our efforts to protect local businesses. It’s like we’re giving in to pressure every time.”