Australia Post has temporarily stopped sending some parcels to the United States and Puerto Rico immediately until further notice. This decision comes in response to US President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs and changes to customs rules regarding parcels. Parcels worth less than US$800 previously entered the US without tariffs, under the “de minimis” rule. With the new executive order signed by Trump last month, such packages will now be subject to duties equivalent to the tariffs on that country.
Australian goods are now subject to a fundamental 10% tariff. However, gifts worth less than US$100 (or around AU$150) and documents are exempt from these changes. This move is part of a broader trade war and frustration with China, which Trump alleges is undermining local manufacturing. The executive order targets a “catastrophic loophole” that allowed untaxed packages to enter the US, facilitating the distribution of harmful substances according to Trump.
Japan and Switzerland have also paused shipments to the US in response to these changes. The shadow minister for small businesses in Australia has expressed concerns and called on Australia’s ambassador in the US to intervene. Australia Post, a government-owned entity, is seeking a solution in collaboration with US and Australian authorities to resume postal services to the US as a priority. Customers are expected to be notified before the implementation of a new system that adheres to the updated requirements.
The Australian government spokesperson expressed disappointment with the new US tariff rule, suggesting it would increase costs for American families and small businesses. Nonetheless, both Australia Post and the government are working to minimize disruptions for affected customers by adapting to the new rules.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/aug/26/australia-post-auspost-suspends-us-parcel-deliveries-postage
