The United States has officially ended its long-standing de minimis duty exemption, which previously allowed low-value imports of up to $800 to enter duty-free. Under the new policy, effective August 29, 2025, all international shipments to the U.S. are subject to regular tariffs, duties, and customs checks. The change came earlier than expected after an executive order accelerated the phase-out timeline, causing widespread disruption across global supply chains.
The immediate impact was felt by postal services worldwide, with several European and Asian carriers suspending or restricting shipments to the U.S. due to uncertainty over customs procedures. While private logistics firms such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL have continued operations, they have been forced to adjust quickly to comply with the new requirements.
Consumers in the U.S. are now experiencing price increases, often 15 percent or more at checkout, along with delivery delays as customs systems process a sudden influx of taxable parcels.
E-commerce platforms and vendors are among the hardest hit. Large retailers like Temu and Shein face higher costs and operational shifts, with some moving toward U.S.-based fulfillment models. Smaller sellers, particularly in Europe and the UK, have reported higher expenses and reduced competitiveness in the American market. Analysts also warn that overall e-commerce growth, previously projected at around 8 percent, could slow significantly in the months ahead.
Though the policy is aimed at curbing counterfeit imports, addressing safety concerns, and supporting domestic industries, its abrupt implementation has created significant turbulence. Businesses, consumers, and governments in Europe alike are now grappling with the wider repercussions of a trade decision that reshapes the rules of cross-border retail.
