Important Correction: Status of US Import Tariffs on Japanese Goods

This is an important correction to my previous email regarding the new US tariffs on Japanese goods. I sincerely apologize for any confusion or concern my message may have caused.

After reviewing the latest official information, including a recent notice from FedEx about the Executive Order, I need to correct my previous statement: The $800 de minimis exemption for imports from Japan currently remains in effect, contrary to what I communicated earlier.

My previous understanding was based on incomplete information that did not fully explain all the facts. I deeply regret any inconvenience this may have caused you, and I want to emphasize that my intention was only to help our customers prepare for potential changes.

Based on the most current and accurate information, including recent notices from major carriers like FedEx:

The $800 de minimis exemption is still active for Japanese goods - This means shipments valued at $800 or less can still enter the US duty-free without formal customs procedures.

This applies to all shipping methods - Whether your packages are shipped via FedEx, DHL, or Japan Post, the same $800 exemption applies equally.

New tariffs only apply to shipments valued over $800 - Only Japanese imports exceeding this threshold will be subject to the new tariffs at this time.

China and Hong Kong exception - FedEx confirms that only goods from China and Hong Kong will lose de minimis treatment (effective May 2, 2025). This change does not affect shipments from Japan.

It's important to note that the recent Executive Order does signal a potential future change:

According to FedEx's official notice, the Executive Order states that "De minimis treatment would continue for the rest of the world until 'the Secretary of Commerce notifies the President that adequate systems are in place for the complete and prompt collection of revenues from duties applied pursuant to this section for items subject to de minimis treatment.'"

Currently, no such notification has been issued, so the exemption remains in place for all countries except China and Hong Kong (which will lose this exemption effective May 2, 2025).

We will continue monitoring this situation closely, as the policy could change in the future.

If you're ordering items from Japan with a value of $800 or less, they will continue to enter the US duty-free for the time being.

There is no immediate need to rush shipments under the $800 threshold.

For orders valued over $800, the new tariffs will apply as described in my previous email.

While we strive to provide the most accurate information possible, international trade regulations are complex and frequently changing. The information shared in this email:

• Reflects our current understanding based on available documentation

• May not capture all nuances of customs enforcement practices

• Could be subject to different interpretations by US Customs officials

• May change without advance notice

We strongly recommend consulting with a customs broker or international trade attorney for definitive guidance on specific high-value shipments.

We remain committed to providing you with the best information available. We will continue to:

• Monitor official announcements from US Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Commerce, and the US Trade Representative

• Update you promptly with any changes to import regulations

• Support our community through any future policy changes

• Share real-world experiences from our customers to help everyone navigate these changes

Again, I sincerely apologize for the confusion. We value your trust in Blackship and are dedicated to maintaining transparency in all our communications.

Thank you for your understanding.

Max Hodges
CEO at White Rabbit Japan