NZ Post suspends deliveries to US amid tariff uncertainty

New Zealand Post has suspended most parcel deliveries to the United States, citing uncertainty over the impact of upcoming U.S. tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.

The postal operator said the suspension took effect on August 21, ahead of a 15% tariff due to be enforced from August 29. Only limited services — including letters and essential documents such as passports or legal papers — will continue.

The move mirrors actions by postal services in India, Germany, France, Belgium, Austria, and Denmark, after Washington confirmed it would scrap a tax exemption on small packages entering the U.S. starting August 29.

The Trump administration began rolling out tariffs on foreign goods in April, but most measures are only taking effect this month following prolonged negotiations and delays.

NZ Post said it was “working quickly” to adjust its systems and expected to resume services “as soon as possible.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the confusion, telling Radio New Zealand that postal organisations cannot currently estimate tariff rates or costs.

“As these postal organisations have worked out, they can’t guarantee what the tariff rate will be or how it will work in practice,” Luxon said. “I’m sure NZ Post and its international counterparts will continue to work with U.S. authorities to get clarity.”