• DHL logos are seen on the back of a company truck in Glenview, Ill., Thursday, May 2, 2024 (AP)

DHL will suspend global shipments to individuals in the United States, as US customs regulatory changes have prolonged clearance.

DHL Express, a division of Germany's Deutsche Post, stated that due to US customs regulatory changes leading to extended clearance times, it will halt global business-to-consumer shipments exceeding $800 in value to US individuals, with the suspension taking effect on Saturday, April 21.

The shipping giant attributed the suspension to updated US customs regulations, which now mandate formal entry processing for all shipments valued above $800, a significant reduction from the previous $2,500 threshold that was in effect until the policy change on April 5.

DHL mentioned that while business-to-business shipments would continue without suspension, they might experience delays, and shipments valued under $800, whether destined for businesses or consumers, remained unaffected by the changes.

In response to inquiries from Reuters last week, DHL stated that it would handle shipments from Hong Kong to the United States in compliance with "the applicable customs rules and regulations" and would assist its customers in understanding and adjusting to the changes set to take effect on May 2.

This comes as the world responds to the latest tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, upending the global economy and international trade.