USPS Halts Incoming Packages from China and Hong Kong: What You Need to Know

WASHINGTON — The United States Postal Service (USPS) has announced a temporary suspension of inbound parcels from China and Hong Kong, effective immediately. This measure will not impact the delivery of letters or flats from these regions.

While USPS did not provide a specific reason for the suspension, it coincides with the implementation of a new 10% tariff on Chinese goods announced by former President Trump. In retaliation, China plans to impose its own tariffs on U.S. imports, which will take effect next week.

Starting Monday, China will implement a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas imports from the U.S., alongside a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine vehicles. These actions signal the continuation of an ongoing trade conflict between the two nations.

Additionally, American tariffs targeting imports from Canada and Mexico were also set to take effect Tuesday. However, Trump has agreed to a 30-day pause while discussions about border security and drug trafficking continue.

The White House has confirmed that a conversation between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping is in the works. “It is being scheduled and will happen very soon,” stated White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

This latest round of trade tensions echoes earlier conflicts, particularly during 2018 when the two countries engaged in a trade war marked by increasing tariffs. Analysts suggest that while China is better equipped to respond to U.S. measures this time, it remains cautious about actions that could destabilize its own economy.