The United States has ended the ‘de minimise’ exemption, which earlier allowed international packages worth less than $800 to enter the country without any duty. This rule was first removed only for China, but now it applies to all countries. This sudden change has caused problems for global trade. Because of higher costs and new customs rules at least 29 European postal services have stopped or limited their parcel deliveries to the U.S. This means many customers can face delays, cancellations or higher prices when ordering low-cost items from abroad. Products such as yarn, cigars, clothes and small household goods are expected to be affected quickly.
The U.S. government, however, defends the decision. Officials say the rule will help protect American businesses and make trade more “fair.” They argue that foreign sellers need to adjust to the new system. But the critics are calling this move ‘Trump’s online shopping tax’, saying it will make online shopping from foreign sellers more expensive and reduce choices for U.S. consumers. This step is part of President Trump’s wider tariff policy, which is reshaping global trade.
