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Due to new US import tax regulations, postal services like Royal Mail and DHL are suspending some US deliveries. These changes eliminate the global import tax exemption on low-value parcels, meaning most packages will now face tariffs. While gifts under $100 remain duty-free, the shift aims to combat deceptive shipping practices and duty circumvention. Several postal services and online marketplaces are working to adapt to the new rules, with some temporarily halting or suspending services to ensure compliance.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will remove all tariffs on U.S. goods covered by the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) by September 1st. While maintaining tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos, the move aims to address ongoing trade issues with the U.S. and preserve existing advantages for Canadian workers. The decision follows a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated discussions would intensify to address trade challenges in strategic sectors. The announcement has elicited mixed reactions, with some welcoming the move, while others, including the Conservative Leader, have criticized it as a concession.
Starting August 23, postal services in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Belgium will temporarily halt parcel shipments to the US due to the upcoming suspension of the “de minimis” customs exemption. This exemption previously allowed low-value packages to enter the US duty-free, but the change means shipments will now face tariffs, which these postal operators are not yet equipped to handle. Consequently, this decision will affect packages beyond letters, potentially forcing sellers to cancel orders or seek alternative shipping methods. The temporary halt is a result of not being able to handle the new customs declaration paperwork and payment methods required.
Wholesale prices have recently risen at the fastest pace in three years, signaling that retailers are beginning to pass on the costs of tariffs to consumers. Companies like Sony and Fujifilm are already raising prices on products, explicitly or implicitly attributing the increases to import taxes. Additionally, supply chain issues, weather, and labor shortages in farming, partially stemming from immigration crackdowns, are further contributing to rising costs for consumers. While businesses initially absorbed much of the tariff burden, consumers can expect to bear a greater share in the coming months, though some relief may come in the form of lower prices for some fast food meals.
The Quebec liquor board may be forced to destroy $300,000 worth of American alcohol due to a government-imposed ban in response to U.S. tariffs. These products, primarily rosé, boxed wines, and certain ready-to-drink cocktails and beers, have been in storage since March. Despite previous assurances of retained value, the liquor board indicates that products nearing expiration may need to be discarded if guidelines aren’t adjusted. While this represents a small portion of the $27 million in stored American products, the fate of the remaining stock remains uncertain, awaiting government decisions.
Walmart’s CEO, Doug McMillon, stated that the company’s tariff costs are escalating weekly and are expected to continue rising through the year’s end. While the retailer has managed to mitigate some costs and even lowered prices on some back-to-school items, the impact of tariffs on imports looms large. Although there haven’t been dramatic shifts in shopping behavior, the rising costs have led to some price adjustments and shifts in consumer spending. Home Depot and Lowe’s also reported similar challenges with tariff impacts and noted the growing uncertainty in the economy.
Sony hikes PlayStation 5 prices in US as tariff uncertainty weighs. It seems like there’s a collective groan of frustration emanating from the gaming community right now, and honestly, I get it. The news that Sony is increasing the price of the PlayStation 5 in the US is not exactly what anyone wanted to hear. And the reasoning? Well, it seems like that old enemy – tariff uncertainty – is back to haunt us.
The truth is, we’re all probably already paying tariffs in one way or another, whether we realize it or not. It’s baked into the cost of so many products, even if they don’t come with a direct tariff, there’s a strong likelihood somewhere in the supply chain that’s being impacted.… Continue reading
Jil McIntosh is a seasoned freelance writer with over 35 years of experience, currently contributing to Driving.ca since 2016. Her expertise spans new-vehicle reviews, automotive technology, and a passion for antique cars, with a specialization in “How It Works” columns. McIntosh is a voting member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) and a juror for the Women’s World Car of the Year Awards. Throughout her career, she has written for numerous publications and has received several accolades, including the AJAC Journalist of the Year award in 2016.
The Consumer Price Index indicates grocery prices rose 2.2 percent in July compared to the previous year, putting a strain on consumers. Essential items like coffee, ground beef, and eggs have seen notable price increases, with the latter still up over 16 percent despite a decrease due to the avian flu. These rising costs are partially linked to tariffs on aluminum and steel, impacting the prices of canned goods and beverages. Fortunately, because only a small fraction of food is imported, only a portion of grocery items are subject to further tariffs.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood