USPS Suspension of Parcel Deliveries from China
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced an immediate suspension of parcel deliveries from China and Hong Kong. However, the suspension does not affect letter deliveries. This move is part of the ongoing series of trade restrictions imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Chinese imports. Under the new regulations, the U.S. has imposed an additional 10% tariff on all goods imported from China and has ended the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed goods valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. duty-free.
This change significantly impacts Chinese e-commerce companies, such as Shein and Temu, which were rapidly expanding in the U.S. market under this exemption. U.S. policymakers have called for stricter measures to curb their growth.
China’s Response to the U.S. Move
China’s Retaliatory Tariffs
In response to the U.S. decision, China announced that it would impose retaliatory tariffs on specific U.S. products starting from February 10. These include:
- 15% tariff on coal and LNG products
- 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and vehicles with large engines
Concerns Among Economic Experts
Trade experts warn that this new move could disrupt e-commerce supply chains and further complicate the economic relationship between the U.S. and China. Deborah Almaz, an expert in trade, stated,
“These changes in Trump-era tariffs are especially harmful to goods that were previously sent directly from Chinese e-commerce companies to the U.S.”
Diplomatic Developments
It is expected that former President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will engage in discussions over trade matters in the coming days. Experts are closely watching this meeting to see if both countries can prevent further escalation of tensions in their relationship.
