A Latin term that’s been little-known outside the world of customs brokers has suddenly become the stuff of headlines. Along with imposing new 10% tariffs on all Chinese imports as of Feb. 4, US President Donald Trump suspended his country’s special rules for “de minimis” merchandise from China and Hong Kong.

The trade loophole is meant to ease small-scale sales — but critics say it's been abused and gives Chinese firms an unfair advantage.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order delaying tariffs on de minimis, or low-cost, packages from China until the Commerce Department can confirm that procedures and systems are in place to process packages and collect tariff revenue.

The change comes after President Donald Trump announced new tariffs that also target a popular trade loophole, called "de minimis."

Move followed US introduction of tariffs on Chinese imports and removal of long-standing duty-exemption rule, but is no longer in effect

The move will likely have an impact on e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu, along with operators of drop shipping businesses.