All postal services to the US have been temporarily suspended, except services for letters, documents, and gift items of value up to USD 100, the Ministry of Communications informed on Saturday.
With the American customs department floating new norms for postal services, a lack of clarity on the same has led to US-bound air carriers denying carrying any shipments from India that are valued above USD 100.
“The Department of Posts has decided to temporarily suspend booking of all types of postal articles destined for the US with effect from August 25, 2025, except letters/documents and gift items up to USD 100 in value,” a statement by the ministry said.
An Executive Order issued by the US administration on July 30, 2025, subjected goods valued above USD 100 to customs duties in America with effect from August 29 onwards.
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As per the Order, transport carriers delivering shipments through the international postal network, or other “qualified parties” that are approved by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are required to collect and remit duties on postal shipments.
Since the definition of “qualified parties” and mechanisms for duty collection and remittance remain cloudy, postal services were halted until further clarity is received.
"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," the ministry elaborated.
However, items whose worth falls below USD 100 will continue to be accepted and conveyed to the US.
"These exempt categories will continue to be accepted and conveyed to the US, subject to further clarifications from CBP and USPS," the statement said.
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