On July 30, the U.S. President issued an executive order to suspend the long-standing de minimis treatment for all countries. This policy shift means all incoming shipments are now subject to tariffs and customs duties, regardless of their value. The new regulations make transport carriers and approved parties responsible for collecting these customs duties, a significant change from the previous system.

In response, national postal services in more than 30 countries—including major trading partners like the UK, Germany, France, Japan, and Australia—have ceased shipping small parcels to the U.S. Their stated reason is a lack of clarity in the new U.S. guidelines, and they are unwilling to risk non-compliance.

Impact on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

The move has created a major disruption for small jewelry businesses and other online sellers who depend on postal services for international shipments. For many, the U.S. is their primary market. Platforms like Etsy, which are popular with artisans and small sellers, have been significantly affected.

• Financial Strain: Small businesses typically operate on thin profit margins. The addition of customs duties and the logistical complexities of the new policy are making it difficult for them to remain profitable.
• Operational Challenges: Without a clear and reliable method for shipping to the U.S., many businesses have been forced to suspend operations in that market. Some have reportedly closed their online stores entirely.
• Market Access: The suspension of postal services effectively cuts off a crucial shipping channel, severely limiting market access for international sellers targeting U.S. consumers.

The end of the de minimis rule represents a fundamental shift in U.S. trade policy, moving away from facilitating low-value imports and toward stricter enforcement of tariffs. While the full long-term impact is still developing, the immediate consequences are clear: a significant disruption to global small parcel logistics and a major financial and operational challenge for small e-commerce businesses worldwide.