When barriers disrupt the flow of books: reflections on the US parcel exemption change

The international book trade is currently facing a period of deep uncertainty following the removal of the de minimis exemption for parcels being sent to the United States. This change has already led to confusion and disruption, as the costs and complexities of shipping books across borders rise sharply. For many publishers, distributors and booksellers, the situation is nothing short of chaotic.

We do not wish here to discuss politics or the policies themselves, nor the individuals behind them. But we cannot help feeling saddened and concerned when obstacles are placed—no matter how unintentionally—in the way of the free flow of ideas, stories and perspectives on life. Books have always offered both comfort and challenge, inspiration and provocation, and in these extremely uncertain times they are needed more than ever.

At P-Wave Press, we are fortunate not to be directly affected, as we rely on print-on-demand for our books. But we care deeply about our fellow publishers, printers and distributors, many of whom already face a precarious existence in bringing literature into the world. Anything that adds to their difficulties threatens the fragile ecosystem upon which all of us who love books depend.

We would dearly like to see not only a return to normal but even the introduction of preferential treatment for the creative industries. That may seem remote today, but it is an aspiration worth holding onto, for the sake of readers and writers everywhere.

We’d love to hear what you think. Join the debate on on X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky.