Trump Announces End of Duty-Free Threshold for Chinese Imports Under $800

On April 2, 2025 (US local time), President Trump announced that, starting from May 2, 2025, at 12:01 AM Eastern Time, the United States will eliminate the duty-free minimum threshold for low-value imports from China. This means the exemption for goods valued under $800 will be revoked.

According to an official White House statement, Trump will enforce the termination of the de minimis treatment for imports from China and Hong Kong once the U.S. Secretary of Commerce confirms that the necessary systems are in place to collect tariffs. The policy will take effect from 12:01 AM ET on May 2, 2025.

The Image from whitehouse

Key Policy Conditions

  1. For shipments outside of international postal networks: Any imported goods valued at or below $800 that meet the de minimis exemption criteria will now be subject to all applicable duties. Importers must follow the required entry and payment procedures.

  2. For all mail shipments (via international postal networks): Any parcels containing goods valued at or below $800 will be subject to a 30% tariff or a flat fee of $25 per package (increasing to $50 per package after June 1, 2025). This tariff will replace any previously imposed duties, including those from previous executive orders.

The cancellation of T86 exemptions will significantly impact U.S.-based e-commerce businesses. To stay ahead, join our exclusive Facebook Dropshipping Discussion Group to discuss strategies and solutions with industry experts.

📢 Join the Conversation! Scan the QR code below to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and stay updated on the latest tariff response strategies.

How Will This Impact Importers and Dropshipping Businesses?

The policy change directly affects businesses that rely on cross-border direct shipping, particularly dropshippers and independent e-commerce sellers. As a result:

  • Shipping costs will rise due to additional tariffs.

  • Transit times may be impacted as shipping companies will be required to report shipment details to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), maintain international carrier bonds, and adhere to a new duty payment schedule.

  • CBP may require formal entry declarations for mailed parcels instead of allowing simplified duty exemptions.

  • The U.S. government is also considering extending similar policies to parcels originating from Macau.

What Can U.S. Dropshippers Do to Adapt?

With only a one-month transition period before the new tariff policy takes effect, sellers need to explore alternative logistics solutions. Options include:

  • Using overseas warehouses to store and ship inventory domestically.

  • Considering transshipment (routing shipments through third countries), though this could increase delivery times and may not necessarily bypass tariffs.

  • Optimizing supply chain strategies to absorb the additional costs or pass them to customers.

Stay Informed & Adapt to the Changes!

On April 9, Aplusfulfill and leading U.S. logistics providers will share timely solutions and strategies to navigate this transition smoothly.

🔗 Join the Whatsapp Channel for First-Hand Updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7L3FkKQuJJjXGBMg06