U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has collected more than $1 billion in duties from over 246 million low-value shipments since the federal government began phasing out the de minimis loophole in May 2025. The change has led to a significant increase in revenue that was previously not collected due to exemptions for low-cost imports.
“Reaching the $1 billion milestone so quickly shows just how much revenue was slipping away under the old rules,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott. “With this change, American businesses don’t have to compete with duty-free foreign goods, and CBP has stronger oversight of what comes into our country.”
The de minimis exemption previously allowed packages valued below a certain threshold to enter the United States without incurring customs duties. Starting on May 2, 2025, this exemption ended for shipments from China and Hong Kong. By August 29, 2025, CBP fully removed the exemption for all countries, allowing it to collect duties on all low-value imports and increase scrutiny of incoming goods.
CBP reports that since ending de minimis eligibility for China and Hong Kong, seizures of unsafe or non-compliant low-value items have risen by 82%. These seizures include counterfeit products, narcotics, faulty electronics, and items containing hazardous chemicals.
“With increased visibility into data for these low-value shipments, we’re better equipped to detect and disrupt criminal networks from smuggling drugs, counterfeits, and other illegal items—making our country safer,” said Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner for CBP’s Office of Trade Susan S. Thomas.
The agency notes that as importers adjust to these new policies, package volumes continue to rise. The removal of the de minimis exemption is part of broader trade enforcement efforts designed to ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations and protect domestic industries.
CBP offers guidance and resources regarding changes in importation procedures for low-value shipments through its Frequently Asked Questions about E-Commerce and De Minimis page on its website.
