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Written question asked by Manuela Perteghella (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 June 2026. It was answered by Chris Bryant (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

Customs: USA

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment his Department has made of the impact of (a) the removal of the de minimis exemption and (b) other changes to United States customs arrangements on UK individuals sending (i) personal goods and (ii) parcels to the United States; and what discussions he has had with his US counterparts on ensuring that (A) customs fees and (B) tariff requirements do not place a disproportionate burden on private individuals.

Answer

The Executive Order on de minimis is a US domestic policy initiative aimed at addressing longstanding US domestic concerns.

We understand the challenges associated with these changes and have published resources on business.gov.uk to support exporters. DBT has also launched the Business Academy’s “Gateway USA” series and expanded access to the Export Support Service and Business Growth Service.

Following removal of the de minimis threshold, the UK was able to immediately offer a postal solution, with Royal Mail implementing a system to ensure continuity of service to the US.

We continue to engage the US on its wider trade approach.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
10448
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Customs Fees and charges Import duties Parcels USA
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk