Hong Kong To File Complaint Against U.S. Tariffs At WTO

Hong Kong will file a World Trade Organization (WTO) complaint against new U.S. tariffs imposed on the city, arguing that the U.S. has ignored its status as a separate customs territory, Chief Secretary Eric Chan said, Reuters’ James Pomfret reported.

Trump’s latest trade measures also eliminate the “de minimis” duty exemption for packages valued under $800.

“This is absolutely inconsistent with WTO rules. The U.S. has completely disregarded Hong Kong’s status as a separate customs territory,” Chan, the second-highest official in the China-ruled city, told reporters.

Chan confirmed that Hong Kong will challenge the 10% tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, who has targeted Chinese imports, including goods from Hong Kong.

Adding to the tension, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) briefly suspended all inbound mail and packages from China and Hong Kong last week before quickly reversing its decision. The temporary halt disrupted retailers and express shipping firms, raising concerns about compliance with the new U.S. trade policies.

“All I can say is, the policies are mercurial,” Chan remarked.

Trump’s latest trade measures also eliminate the “de minimis” duty exemption for packages valued under $800, a move intended to curb the flow of fentanyl and precursor chemicals into the United States.