PHLPost suspends shipments to US after removal of duty-free rule

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has suspended all outbound shipments from the Philippines to the United States. This follows the removal of its duty-free exemption policy.

The suspension took effect on August 28, covering all postal items sent to the US starting August 22. Customers with items already lodged can request retrieval and refunds by submitting required documents, according to PHLPost.

The agency cited the United States’ suspension of the duty-free de minimis exemption and the implementation of new customs requirements.

The policy change was signed through an executive order by US President Donald Trump on July 31. It removes the long-standing rule that allowed packages valued at USD 800 (~PHP 46K) or below to enter duty-free.

Shipments are now subject to tariffs based on their country of origin or a fixed duty. The price for this ranges between USD 80-200 (PHP 4.5-11.4K) per item.

PHLPost is one of several international postal operators halting services to the US. According to the Universal Postal Union, 25 member countries have suspended outbound shipments following the new customs rules.