Key Facts
• Japan Post announced on August 25 changes to U.S.-bound mail services.
• From August 27, parcels exceeding $100 in value between individuals will be halted.
• Items for commercial purposes will also be temporarily suspended.
• Letters, postcards, and printed materials remain unaffected.
• U.S. presidential order (July 30) ends tax exemption for items under $800 from August 29.
• Gifts under $100 between individuals are expected to remain tax-free.
• Uncertainty in taxation procedures prompted Japan Post’s decision.
• Similar measures are being adopted by other international postal services.
Summary
Japan Post announced it will temporarily stop accepting certain U.S.-bound mail starting August 27, 2025. This decision affects parcels exceeding $100 in value sent between individuals and items intended for sale, in response to a U.S. presidential order ending tax exemptions for items under $800. Letters, postcards, and printed materials are not impacted. The new U.S. policy, effective August 29, introduces taxation on previously exempted items, with gifts under $100 expected to remain tax-free. Due to unclear taxation procedures, Japan Post has opted to suspend affected mail services. Similar actions are being implemented by other postal operators globally.
