Urgent Update: Hong Kong Post Office Suspends Parcel Shipping to the U.S. Due to New Tariffs – What You Need to Know!

HONG KONG — The Hong Kong post office is making changes to its mailing policies. Starting soon, it won’t ship small packages to the United States. This decision comes after the U.S. announced it would impose a 120% tariff on low-value parcels from Hong Kong.

This new tariff will kick in on May 2, replacing the current “de minimis” rule. Under this rule, shipments valued at less than $800 could enter the U.S. without taxes. The Hong Kong government stated that the post office will not collect these tariffs for U.S. Customs. Therefore, it will stop accepting non-airmail packages heading to the U.S. on April 26, mainly because sea shipments take longer. However, airmail parcels can still be sent until April 27.

The Hong Kong government expressed frustration, stating, “For sending items to the U.S., the public in Hong Kong should be prepared for high fees due to the U.S.’s unreasonable actions.” It will still accept mail that only contains documents.

Hong Kong finds itself in a complicated situation. Despite being a free port, it is caught in the middle of escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China. A staggering 55% of Hong Kong’s total exports went to mainland China in 2022, illustrating the deep economic ties between the regions.

The U.S.’s decision reflects a growing concern for national security. In 2020, the U.S. began to treat Hong Kong as part of China due to the implementation of a national security law in the territory. This law has brought significant changes, effectively silencing dissent and raising concerns about civil liberties in Hong Kong.

As part of the ongoing trade disputes, the U.S. has imposed similar tariffs on other imports from China. According to a recent report by the Peterson Institute for International Economics, these tariffs have led to increased prices for American consumers, with estimates indicating an impact of $1,300 per year per household.

In light of the latest shipping changes, many in Hong Kong have taken to social media to share their thoughts. Some express disappointment over the added costs, while others see it as a necessary response to the global economic climate.

In summary, the shift in Hong Kong’s mailing policy marks a significant point in the ongoing trade conflict with the U.S., reflecting broader geopolitical shifts that could have lasting effects on global commerce. For more information, please refer to the full U.S. Customs announcement here.

Check out this related article: Breaking: Hong Kong Halts Postal Services to the US Amid Trump’s Tariff Hikes – What This Means for You