Effective immediately, Jamaica’s national postal service has paused the dispatch of packages and merchandise-bound letters to the United States, citing a sweeping policy shift by U.S. customs authorities.
The suspension comes in response to Executive Order 14324 issued by the United States government, which eliminates the longstanding “de minimis” exemption — a policy that previously allowed low-value imports to enter the U.S. duty-free. Under the new rule, which takes effect August 29, all incoming goods—regardless of origin or value—are now subject to customs duties.
Jamaica Post confirmed the last outbound shipment to the U.S. will depart Thursday, August 28, with all branches ceasing acceptance of packages the day prior. The move affects not only Jamaica, but all nations exporting to the U.S. under the former exemption rule.
“This directive came without warning,” said a representative from Jamaica Post, adding that the agency is actively working with its international logistics partners to assess alternatives.
Merchants, e-commerce sellers, and individuals relying on cross-border postal trade are advised to monitor official channels for updates. The pause is indefinite.
This development has implications for the entire Caribbean logistics and trade ecosystem. The de minimis rule was especially critical for small island economies relying on low-cost international shipping to remain competitive. The new U.S. stance signals a tightening border posture — and could set off broader ripples across international mail and commerce.
Further announcements are expected as postal authorities review the situation and explore compliant shipping options under the revised customs framework.
