What's happened
Australia Post plans to resume parcel deliveries to the US by September 25 after a suspension caused by US tariffs and customs rule changes. The global postal network experienced an 81% drop in traffic following the US's elimination of the de minimis exemption for low-value parcels, leading to widespread service suspensions among postal operators worldwide.
What's behind the headline?
The US's removal of the de minimis exemption has had a profound impact on global postal services, causing an 81% decline in international mail to the US. Postal operators worldwide have suspended services due to logistical challenges in duty collection, with airlines unwilling or unable to assume new responsibilities. The UPU's development of a 'Delivered Duty Paid' platform aims to address these issues, but the disruptions highlight the fragility of international mail networks when regulatory changes are implemented abruptly. This situation underscores the need for coordinated international solutions to prevent further service collapses and ensure the continuity of global e-commerce and personal shipments.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports that postal traffic into the US plunged by over 80% after the tariff exemption was removed, with 88 postal operators suspending services. AP News confirms that the Universal Postal Union has started rolling out new measures to help postal operators calculate and collect duties, but operational disruptions persist. SBS highlights Australia Post's plan to resume parcel services by September 25, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy. The South China Morning Post notes the UPU's work on a new technical solution to facilitate mail movement, while also quoting the UPU's director general Masahiko Metoki on the importance of the upcoming system. These sources collectively illustrate the global scale of the disruption and the concerted efforts to resolve it.
How we got here
The US eliminated the de minimis exemption for parcels valued at $800 or less on August 29, 2025, shifting the responsibility of duty collection to carriers and customs authorities. This change was intended to close loopholes exploited for evading tariffs and smuggling drugs, but it caused significant disruptions in international mail, with many postal operators suspending services to the US due to inability to comply with new customs procedures. The Universal Postal Union is working on technical solutions to facilitate duty collection and restore mail traffic.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did US Postal Traffic Drop 80% After Policy Changes?
The US postal system has experienced a dramatic 80% decline in international mail traffic following recent policy shifts, particularly the end of the de minimis exemption. This change has raised many questions about how it impacts mail delivery, international trade, and postal operations worldwide. Below, we explore the reasons behind this drop, how postal operators are responding, and what it means for your mail and packages.
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Why Are US Postal Services Experiencing Disruptions?
Recent changes in US postal policies and international tariffs have caused significant disruptions in global mail services. Many people are wondering why their parcels are delayed or suspended, especially when sending or receiving mail from the US. In this guide, we explore the reasons behind these disruptions, when services might return to normal, and what the future holds for international postal exchanges.
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What Do Today’s Major News Stories Say About Global Stability?
Today’s headlines reveal a complex web of international events, from protests and conflicts to legislative changes and postal disruptions. These stories raise important questions about the interconnectedness of global unrest, political shifts, and economic stability. Curious about how these events relate and what they mean for the world’s future? Below, we explore key questions to help you understand the bigger picture behind today’s news.
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