a public notice issued Friday, NIPOST explained that the development follows a recent Executive Order signed by the United States Government suspending duty-free de minimis exemptions for postal shipments worldwide. The order, enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, ends the longstanding policy that exempted small packages under $800 from tariffs.
According to NIPOST, the directive is global in scope, applying to all postal operators and designated administrations, not just Nigeria. “This Executive Order affects all countries. The payment of the additional duty applies to every postal inflow into the U.S.,” the agency stated.
The postal service further warned that the change will have far-reaching implications for Nigerians sending parcels, gifts, and business goods to family, friends, and partners in America. Global logistics companies and airlines are already adopting stricter measures for U.S.-bound shipments, which may extend both transit and processing times, potentially leading to delivery delays.
“All U.S.-bound items will undergo additional Customs checks upon arrival,” NIPOST added, noting that this could further compound waiting times for recipients.
However, NIPOST assured customers that it is working closely with international partners, including the Universal Postal Union, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and airline operators, to minimize disruptions. “We remain committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient postal and courier services despite this global regulatory adjustment,” the agency said.
The move by Washington has drawn concern globally. Several countries, including France, Germany, Italy, India, Australia, and Japan, have announced similar measures in response. Officials in the Trump administration argue the suspension closes a loophole exploited to evade tariffs and smuggle narcotics, while also boosting revenue through tariffs and duties.
For Nigerians, however, the new $80 duty means higher costs for cross-border trade and personal shipping with the United States, a change expected to impact small businesses and households alike.
