The U.S. Postal Service has reversed its decision to stop accepting inbound mail and packages from China and Hong Kong, announcing Wednesday that deliveries will continue despite initial disruptions. The temporary halt came just as President Trump’s 10% tariffs on Chinese goods took effect, prompting immediate retaliatory measures from China.
The tariffs, which were implemented on Tuesday, not only triggered China’s response but also led to the launch of an antitrust investigation into Google by Chinese authorities. Meanwhile, tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods remain on hold as further border security and trade negotiations continue.
One of the key changes in Trump’s tariff order was the removal of a customs exception that had previously allowed small-value parcels—those worth less than $800—to enter the U.S. tax-free. As a result, the U.S. Postal Service initially announced it would stop accepting packages from China and Hong Kong, creating concerns over delays and cancellations for American shoppers, especially those who order from online retailers like Shein and Temu.
Following swift backlash, the USPS confirmed it is now working with Customs and Border Protection to implement a collection process for the new tariffs, ensuring deliveries from China and Hong Kong can continue without further disruption.
President-elect Donald Trump is looking to privatize the U.S. Postal Service, according to a report from The Washington Post. Sources familiar with the development told the publication that Trump discussed the matter with Commerce Secretary pick Howard Lutnick.
After being informed of USPS’s losses, Trump said the government should not subsidize the entity.
USPS reported a net loss of $9.5 billion in fiscal year 2024. In 2023, USPS lost $6.5 billion.
Trump previously urged the USPS to hand over its “rate-setting, personnel decisions, labor relations and managing relationships with its largest clients” to the Treasury Department, the Post noted.
