Trump Temporarily Reinstates Duty-Free Imports for Low-Value Packages from China
The suspension of the de minimis rule has been paused as federal agencies work to establish systems to collect tariffs on millions of daily shipments.
- President Trump initially suspended the de minimis rule, which allowed duty-free imports for packages valued under $800, as part of broader tariffs on Chinese goods.
- The suspension was reversed temporarily after backlash from consumers, e-commerce platforms, and shipping providers, pending the implementation of proper tariff collection systems.
- The de minimis rule has been a cornerstone of cross-border e-commerce, enabling platforms like Shein and Temu to ship low-cost goods directly to U.S. consumers without additional duties.
- Critics argue the rule has facilitated tariff evasion and allowed unsafe products into the U.S., while supporters highlight its role in keeping prices low for consumers and small businesses.
- The policy shift has disrupted shipping operations and led to unexpected fees for consumers, with potential long-term impacts on e-commerce, fashion supply chains, and consumer behavior.
Los Angeles Times 
South China Morning Post 
The Hill 
TechSpot 
