Ludhiana, Aug. 27 -- The department of posts has temporarily suspended the booking and delivery of all mail items to the US, except letters, legal documents and gifts valued up to Rs.8,000 from August 25. The decision, taken in view of high tariff rates, has left residents and small exporters in Ludhiana, in limbo who depend on affordable postal services to send consignments abroad, officials familiar with the matter said.

The decision comes after the US government withdrew the duty free exemption for goods valued up to USD 800 starting August 29. This means that almost all parcels sent from India to the US, regardless of value, will now be subject to customs duties. Only letters, documents, and small gifts up to USD 100 (around Rs.8,000...