Australia Post Halts US Deliveries Following Trump Tariffs

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Australia Post has announced it’s suspending parcel deliveries to the United States and Puerto Rico until further notice, blaming new US import rules introduced under President Donald Trump.

The big change is the removal of the De Minimis exemption, which previously allowed goods under $US800 (about $1233) to enter the US without tariffs. Now, tariffs must be prepaid before an item even arrives, creating major headaches for postal services worldwide.

From August 26, Australia Post won’t accept parcels bound for the US or Puerto Rico through Business Contract, MyPost Business or Retail channels. Letters, documents, and gifts under $US100 can still be sent, but everything else is on hold.

Executive General Manager Gary Starr said the move was unavoidable.

“We are disappointed we’ve had to take this action,” he said. “But due to the complex and rapidly evolving situation, a temporary partial suspension has been necessary so we can develop and implement a workable solution for our customers.”

He added that Australia Post, like more than 190 postal providers globally, is scrambling to adjust to the new guidance from US Customs and Border Protection.

The federal government also criticised the US tariffs, saying they would only end up hurting American families and small businesses.

“The United States’ decision to remove exemptions for low-value imports is disappointing,” a government spokesperson said. “We’ll work with Australia Post to limit disruption for customers while ensuring compliance with the new requirements.”

They added that the Albanese government will keep pushing for the removal of all tariffs on Australian exports, in line with the free trade agreement between the two countries.

For now, though, Aussie businesses and individuals sending parcels to the US will need to sit tight until a solution is found.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.