Hong Kong Halts US Parcel Shipments as Tariff Dispute Escalates:

Citing the newly imposed US tariffs presented by President Donald Trump, Hong Kong will suspend parcel shipments bound for the United States. This move follows the announcement from Washington regarding imposing a 120% tax on low-value shipments from Hong Kong commencing May 2. Such shipments previously enjoyed tax-free entry into the US because they fell within the “de minimis” exemption threshold, which applies to goods valued up to $800.

Temporarily Accepted Airmail Parcels

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Hong Kong Post will no longer act as a US tariff intermediary. Consequently, non-airmail parcels containing merchandise will no longer be accepted for delivery to the US. However, airmail parcels will be accepted until April 27. Other mail that consists only of documents will continue to be processed and sent.

Condemnation of U.S. Tariff Increase in Statement

In a statement, the government of Hong Kong has called the new US tariffs “bullying and unjust.” The same statement notes that senders will need to adjust expectations for higher costs associated with the sending to the United States of America.

Incessant Struggles Regarding Commerce and Self-Governance

Hong Kong functions as a separate entity and is treated as a free port, however, its place in the greater US-China trade war still affects Beijing. Recently the USA has considered Hong Kong as a part of China since they applied a national security law in 2020. This law, which the Chinese government says has restored order, brings considerable suppression of free protest and has shifted international government perception of Hong Kong’s independence.

Consequently, US’s trade restrictions on Chinese products, which have accumulated to around 145%, are also being imposed on Hong Kong’s exports.