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New U.S. Rule Halts Global E-Commerce
The United States government ended the so-called de minimis exemption on August 29, 2025.
It allowed packages worth up to R$ 4.3 thousand (US$ 800) to enter without tariff charges.
The decision, announced during Donald Trump’s administration, caused an immediate collapse in international shipments.
According to data released by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) on September 6, mail traffic to the country plummeted by more than 80% in just one day.
Immediate Decline After the Change
The U.S. customs began to evaluate all packages under the new requirement.
Air carriers and logistics operators became responsible for calculating, collecting, and forwarding taxes.
The tariffs range from 10% to 50%, depending on the origin and type of merchandise.
This new process stalled systems, and according to the UPU, there was an 81% reduction in order volume.
The impact occurred in the week following the rule’s debut compared to the previous one.
Moreover, 88 national postal services have suspended total or partial shipments to the U.S.
They claim to lack technical mechanisms to meet the new requirements.
International Reaction and Impact on Trade
The measure broke a practice in place since 1938.
It generated strong international reaction.
The UPU, based in Bern, Switzerland, sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The document warned of risks to e-commerce and global logistics.
The agency classified the situation as a “major operational disruption.”
The alert highlighted that the suspension may affect consumers, small businesses, and even personal shipments.
Many airlines also stated they could not take on the new responsibilities of tax collection.
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Justifications from the Trump Administration
According to the White House, the exemption had been used as a “loophole” by foreign companies.
They used it to evade import tariffs and even by criminals for sending drugs.
For this reason, the Trump administration emphasized the need for the change.
However, limited exceptions were maintained, such as receiving gifts up to R$ 540 (US$ 100) sent by family.
Personal souvenirs up to R$ 1 thousand (US$ 200) also remain exempt from taxation.
Comparison with the “Blusinhas Tax” in Brazil
The U.S. measure was quickly compared to the so-called “blusinhas tax.” However, just like in Brazil, the rule is already sparking heated debates. Additionally, experts point to immediate impacts for consumers and businesses.
It was created in Brazil in August 2023. At that time, the government decided to charge 60% tax on international purchases of up to US$ 50. Consequently, the change altered digital consumption habits.
Similarly, in the United States, the decision affects consumers who turned to low-value e-commerce. Thus, the sector faces unprecedented challenges. Therefore, adaptation will be inevitable.
Now, the reaction from logistics companies will determine the future of the sector. Moreover, systems will need to be adjusted quickly. Otherwise, the risk of bottlenecks will increase.
The scenario is one of global uncertainty.
After all, how far will these changes impact the democratization of international e-commerce? This question will remain open in the coming months.
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