August 29, 2025- The Trinidad and Tobago Postal Corporation (TTPost) has temporarily suspended all merchandise shipments to the United States, citing major changes under a new U.S. Executive Order that eliminates the long-standing “de minimis” exemption.
Previously, the exemption allowed goods valued at US$800 or less to enter the U.S. duty-free. However, effective August 29, 2025, all international postal shipments containing merchandise—regardless of value—are now subject to U.S. customs duties and clearance procedures.
TTPost’s decision reflects the wider disruption this policy shift is causing across global postal networks. The suspension affects both individual and commercial senders in Trinidad and Tobago, including small businesses and online vendors who depend on affordable international shipping options. Letter mail and documents remain unaffected.
In a statement, TTPost said it is “actively engaging with international partners” to resolve the logistical challenges created by the policy change and to reinstate services as soon as possible.
Several other national postal services, including those in India and parts of Europe, have also suspended merchandise shipments to the U.S. in response to the sudden regulatory change.
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