European Mail Carriers Suspend U.S. Shipments as ’De Minimis’ Rule Expires

Postal services across Europe are halting select shipments to the U.S. ahead of the August 29 expiration of the de minimis trade exemption. The century-old rule permitted duty-free entry for goods valued under $800—a policy critics dubbed a loophole. Germany, Spain, and Nordic countries are among those pausing small parcel services, with apparel trade flows particularly disrupted.

The policy shift stems from an executive order by former President Trump, but its greatest impact may be felt in Asian supply chains. Chinese and Hong Kong exporters dominate the sub-$800 shipment category to American consumers. European operators cite incompatible logistics systems as the reason for preemptive suspensions, while Asian counterparts face steeper commercial consequences.