India Post expands US mail suspension, beyond earlier curb on gifts above USD 100 – here’s what has changed

New Delhi: India Post has suspended all categories of mail operations to the United States following confusion over new rules issued by the US Customs Department. The postal department said the suspension covers letters, documents, and gift items up to USD 100 in value.

Previous partial suspension

Earlier, India Post had only restricted postal services for gifts valued above USD 100. This was linked to an executive order by the US administration, issued on July 30, which mandated customs duties on goods above this value from August 29.

Refunds for customers

“Customers who have already booked items that could not be dispatched may claim a refund of postage,” the Department of Posts said in its official statement. The department also stressed it is monitoring developments and working to restore services.

Lack of regulatory clarity

The department explained that the suspension follows the continued inability of US-bound air carriers to accept consignments. This stems from the absence of a defined regulatory mechanism, including the designation of “qualified parties” and clear systems for duty collection and remittance.

Carriers express inability

Despite guidelines issued by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on August 15, several crucial processes remain unclear. Consequently, air carriers refused to transport India’s postal consignments after August 25, citing lack of operational readiness.