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美国低值包裹政策调整,中国电商包裹何去何从?
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-31 02:11

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment in the U.S. import policy for low-value packages, particularly affecting e-commerce shipments from China, marks a significant shift in the regulatory landscape, ending the previous "Section 321" exemption for packages valued under $800 [1][3]. Group 1: Policy Changes - Starting May 2, the U.S. will implement new customs and tax regulations for low-value packages from China, which will now be subject to a fixed import duty regardless of the previous exemption [1][2]. - The new policy distinguishes between postal and commercial channels, with postal channels now requiring fixed tax rates and pre-payment of duties, complicating the previously simpler process [2][3]. Group 2: Impact on Channels - The postal channel, governed by the Universal Postal Union, will see significant operational complexities due to the new requirements, leading to actions such as Hong Kong Post temporarily suspending shipments to the U.S. [2][4]. - In contrast, commercial channels will continue to follow general trade rules, focusing on the product's HS code and country of origin for duty assessment, which may lead to higher costs for packages originating from China [2][3]. Group 3: Future Developments - The U.S. Department of Commerce is working on a comprehensive regulatory framework for low-value packages, expected to expand globally by September 2025, which may introduce a unified reporting system [3][5]. - The rapid growth of e-commerce transactions has prompted this policy shift, as the previous regulations were inadequate for the current market dynamics, leading to unfair competition and tax equity issues [3][6]. Group 4: Strategic Responses - A transitional solution involves utilizing postal systems from third countries to potentially bypass the new duties until the regulations are fully enforced, although this approach has its drawbacks, including longer logistics times and higher costs [4][5]. - Shifting to traditional general trade customs clearance is seen as a more sustainable strategy, despite its higher operational requirements, as it offers faster clearance and better risk management [5][6]. Group 5: Long-term Considerations - The U.S. may adopt a cross-border e-commerce model similar to China's 9610 model, which would require overseas e-commerce businesses to register locally and comply with comprehensive supply chain regulations [5][6]. - The role of overseas warehouses is becoming increasingly important, serving as a critical link between Chinese brands and U.S. consumers, facilitating localized delivery and communication in the evolving regulatory environment [6].