With the deadline to end the de minimis exemption that allows duty-free shipments into the U.S., Mexico’s postal service, Correos de México, has temporarily paused package deliveries to its northern neighbor. The halt began ahead of the exemption’s expiration on Aug. 29, 2025, as the postal service works to define new operational procedures.
The de minimis exemption, which allowed imported goods valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. duty-free, was outlined in a July 31 Department of Homeland Security press release. This policy had long enabled small shipments to bypass tariffs, benefiting international e-commerce but raising concerns for domestic manufacturers.
President Donald Trump issued an executive order ending the exemption, citing the need to protect American businesses and jobs. The administration argued that the policy had been exploited by foreign sellers and criminal organizations to flood the U.S. market with cheap goods and contraband.
In response, Correos de México announced that it would suspend deliveries starting Aug. 27, 2025, until new operational processes are established. The Mexican government emphasized ongoing dialogue with U.S. authorities and international postal organizations to ensure a smooth resumption of services.
The pause affects not only Mexico but also signals broader disruptions in global postal networks. Other postal services worldwide have already announced similar halts on shipments to the United States as the deadline approaches.
U.S. officials have defended the move, highlighting concerns that the exemption allowed drug cartels and other criminal groups to smuggle contraband alongside legitimate goods. The DHS statement stressed the importance of closing loopholes that undermine national security and domestic economic interests.
As the Aug. 29 deadline nears, businesses and consumers on both sides of the border are bracing for potential delays. Authorities in both countries are working to implement solutions that allow shipments to resume safely while ensuring compliance with the new tariff rules.