On the 26th, Australia joined the ranks of Taiwan, Austria, France and others by suspending certain mail services to the United States, in response to the “complex and rapidly changing situation” resulting from President Trump’s forthcoming new parcel tariff policy.
According to AFP, Australia Post announced that it would no longer accept most packages sent to the United States and Puerto Rico, “until further notice.”
Gifts, letters, and documents valued under $100 (420 ringgit) are unaffected.
Before Australia Post announced this policy, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, India, and New Zealand had taken similar measures.
Japan also announced that from the 27th onwards, it will suspend acceptance of personal gifts and goods valued over $100 being sent to the US.
Taiwan, too, has suspended acceptance of merchandise shipments to the US starting from the 26th.
Starting from the 29th, the US will completely suspend low-value de minimis tariff exemptions for small parcels, and all mail sent to the US valued at or below $800 (3362 ringgit) will be subject to customs duties.
Australia Post CEO Starr stated that Australia Post is committed to providing “reliable and competitive postal services.”
However, “in view of the complex and rapidly changing situation,” Australia Post has “regrettably but necessarily” had to suspend certain mail services to the US. He said that this transitional measure is necessary so that Australia Post can “develop and execute a workable solution for customers.”