The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced a temporary pause on accepting inbound packages from the Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) starting February 4. The suspension, listed on the USPS website, applies only to parcels, with letters and standard mail remaining unaffected.
The decision comes amid ongoing global supply chain challenges, though the agency did not specify a reason for the move. Analysts suggest it could impact cross-border e-commerce startups and small businesses reliant on affordable shipping options from Asia. Data shows over 60% of U.S. small businesses source products from the Chinese mainland and HKSAR through platforms like AliExpress and Shein.
Logistics experts warn this could exacerbate delays during Lunar New Year, when shipping volumes typically surge. 'This adds friction to an already strained global trade ecosystem,' said logistics analyst Maria Chen. The USPS statement emphasized the suspension will last 'until further notice.'
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
