The original low-value package inspection exemption was designed for personal use items, not for commercial transactions. To address a loophole that Chinese e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein have exploited to evade tariffs, the White House announced on Sept. 13 that low-value imports subject to tariffs will no longer qualify for a fast-track customs process.
Known as the de minimis rule, imports under the $800 threshold can enter the United States duty-free. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also minimally inspects these products. The exemption was originally created for individuals to avoid paperwork and tariffs on personal use items, not for commercial purposes.
CBP will introduce two new rules in the coming months, along with a new Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) rule in the fall. The CPSC rule, which recently closed its public comment period, aims to collect more data on de minimis shipments for improved product safety control.
The new rules will impact all imports subject to tariffs, with Chinese importers bearing the brunt of the changes. China and Hong Kong accounted for a significant portion of de minimis shipments, with the volume of these shipments increasing rapidly in recent years.
The surge in volume was largely attributed to Chinese retailers like Shein and Temu, who export goods directly to U.S. consumers. The new rules are expected to drastically reduce the number of shipments entering the U.S. through the de minimis exemption.
Lawmakers recently called for a reform of the de minimis rule, citing concerns about the mismatch between its intended purpose and actual use. Reports have raised issues about Chinese companies exploiting trade loopholes and avoiding compliance with regulations.
Overall, the new rules aim to address these concerns and ensure fair trade practices in the importation of goods into the United States. Can you please rewrite this sentence?
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