Lack of Clarity on Customs Rules: Govt Suspends Postal Services to US Temporarily

PTI, New Delhi, Aug 23, 2025 : Postal services to the US have been temporarily suspended, as US-bound air carriers have denied carrying shipments due to a lack of clarity in new norms issued by the American customs department, the Ministry of Communications said on Saturday.

However, services will continue for letters, documents, and gift items worth up to USD 100.

Under an executive order issued by the US administration on July 30, 2025, goods valued at over USD 100 will be subject to customs duties in America with effect from August 29 onwards. According to the order, transport carriers delivering shipments through the international postal network, or other "qualified parties" approved by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are required to collect and remit duties on postal shipments.

"While CBP issued certain guidelines on 15th August, 2025, several critical processes relating to the designation of 'qualified parties' and mechanisms for duty collection and remittance remain undefined. Consequently, US-bound air carriers have expressed their inability to accept postal consignments after 25th August, 2025, citing lack of operational and technical readiness," a statement from the ministry said.