President Donald J. Trump has issued an order to continue the suspension of duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries, including shipments sent through the international postal network. This action builds on several previous executive orders addressing national emergencies related to threats against the United States' security, foreign policy, and economy.
The order revises Executive Order 14324, which initially suspended the duty-free exemption under 19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C) for certain imports. According to President Trump, "After considering the information and recommendations these officials have provided to me, among other things, I have determined that it is still necessary and appropriate to suspend duty-free de minimis treatment under 19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C), including for shipments sent through the international postal network." He further stated that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will collect duties on such shipments in accordance with Executive Order 14324 as amended.
The revised provisions clarify that the duty-free exemption does not apply to any shipment of articles not covered by specific exceptions in federal law, regardless of value or origin. All such shipments are now subject to applicable duties, taxes, fees, and charges unless sent through the international postal network; those remain subject only to specified duties until a new entry process is established by CBP.
For postal shipments entering the United States, transportation carriers or qualified parties must collect and remit duties using procedures outlined by CBP guidance. The rate applied will match that set in a separate proclamation dated February 20, 2026, concerning a temporary import surcharge.
Declarations of country of origin and value are required for all dutiable international postal items. Shipments subject to antidumping or countervailing duties or quotas must continue following existing entry requirements within ACE (Automated Commercial Environment).
The changes take effect at 12:01 a.m., Eastern Standard Time on February 24, 2026. The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to implement these modifications through regulations or guidance as needed.
Any conflicting provisions from prior executive orders are superseded by this latest directive.
President Trump concluded: "This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations."
