We would like to update our US customers on new information regarding upcoming tariff regulations that may affect your order.
Here’s what we know so far:
On April 2, 2025 (U.S. Eastern Daylight Time), President Trump signed an executive order introducing new tariffs and modifying the de minimis exemption threshold. While these changes have not yet affected shipments from Japan, that could change with little notice.
- Starting at 12:01 AM on April 5, 2025 (EDT): An additional 10% tariff will be imposed on products originating from all countries/regions, in addition to any existing tariffs, fees, or other taxes.
- Starting at 12:01 AM on April 9, 2025 (EDT): Individual tariffs for 60 countries and regions will be increased from 10% to the rates specified in the reciprocal tariff schedule.
- Starting at 12:01 AM on May 2, 2025 (EDT): The de minimis exemption for products originating from the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong will no longer apply when imported into the U.S.—regardless of the shipping origin—except for shipments sent via postal networks.
- For all other regions, including Japan, the de minimis exemption will continue to apply until the Secretary of Commerce notifies the U.S. President that an appropriate system is in place to fully and promptly assess and collect tariffs under this provision.
- Update as of April 10, 2025: The U.S. Administration announced a 90-day delay in implementing the new tariffs. Additionally, the tariff rate has been reduced to 10% for all countries except the People’s Republic of China.
Currently, under existing de minimis regulations, orders imported into the U.S. from overseas under USD $800 are exempt from import duties. This exemption remains in effect for now. However, the U.S. Administration has signalled its intent to revise these regulations to impose tariffs on shipments under $800. Whether this will take effect—and at what rate—remains uncertain.
Latest indications suggest that any tariffs imposed on U.S. imports from Japan will be set at 10%, but this is also subject to change.
What to Expect If Tariffs Are Applied to De Minimis Orders:
Based on the most recent information, the proposed 10% tariff will eventually apply to all orders, regardless of value, once the U.S. Postal Service and U.S. Customs have implemented systems to identify package values, and the Secretary of Commerce formally notifies the President.
At this time, there is no confirmed timeline for when these changes will take effect, or whether the proposed 10% tariff—scheduled 90 days after April 10, 2025—will affect de minimis shipments.
Should a tariff system be implemented for de minimis orders, here’s what is expected to happen (subject to change):
- Your package will be intercepted and held by U.S. Customs upon arrival.
- Customs will assess the declared value and issue a payment request for the applicable tariff.
- Once payment is made, the shipment will be released and delivered to you.
- If payment is not made, the shipment will be returned to the sender.
Unfortunately, due to the current uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs, we are unable to provide further specifics, or guarantee if or when the outlined changes will take effect. That said, we remain committed to serving our customers worldwide and will keep you informed as new developments arise.
Thank you for choosing Goods Japan. We look forward to continuing to serve you.
The Goods Japan Team