french.china.org.cn
US Postal Traffic Plunges 81% After "De Minimis" Rule Suspension
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) reported an 81% drop in postal traffic to the US after the end of the "de minimis" exemption rule on August 29, 2023, resulting in 88 postal operators partially or fully suspending US services.
- What solutions are being implemented to restore postal services to the US?
- The UPU developed a new technical solution—an application programming interface (API) with a landing price calculator—allowing postal services to calculate and collect required duties at the origin. This tool, accessible since September 5th, aims to facilitate the resumption of mail flow to the US.
- How did the change in responsibility for customs duties affect postal operations?
- The new rule shifted the responsibility for collecting and paying customs duties to air carriers or parties authorized by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Carriers lacked the capacity or willingness to assume this responsibility, and postal operators hadn't established connections with CBP-authorized parties, causing major operational disruptions.
- What is the immediate impact of the US ending the "de minimis" import exemption rule on postal services?
- The end of the rule caused an 81% drop in postal traffic to the US on August 29th, the day the new rules took effect. This led to 88 postal operators suspending some or all services to the US due to the inability of carriers to handle customs duties.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a factual account of the situation, focusing on the significant drop in postal traffic to the US following the change in the "de minimis" rule. The narrative primarily uses statements from the UPU, presenting their concerns and actions. While it highlights the negative impact on postal services, it avoids explicitly blaming any specific party.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and factual. Terms like "chuté de 81%" and "suspension" are descriptive rather than emotionally charged. The use of quotes from the UPU director adds credibility without introducing bias.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the impact on postal services and largely omits perspectives from US authorities or businesses that might benefit from the change in policy. It also doesn't delve into potential economic impacts beyond the postal sector. However, given the focus on the UPU's role, these omissions are arguably justifiable within the scope of the report.
Sustainable Development Goals
The suspension of the "de minimis" rule disproportionately affects small businesses and individuals in developing countries who rely on affordable postal services for international trade. Increased costs and operational disruptions due to new customs regulations hinder their ability to compete in the global market, exacerbating existing inequalities. The decrease in postal traffic negatively impacts economic opportunities for these groups.