US tariffs on New Zealand exports

The story so far

The United States has imposed a 15% tariff on New Zealand exports, replacing an earlier proposed 10% rate, and an economist warned exporters could lose an estimated $500 million.^{1, 2 Aug 2025} Trade Minister Todd McClay spoke with US trade representative Jamieson Greer about the increase and said he would send a senior diplomat to the US.^{2 Aug 2025} In late August, McClay said the tariff reflects New Zealand's trade surplus with the US, and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said there was no sign it would change.^{22 Aug 2025} Meanwhile, NZ Post suspended most shipping to the US and some US territories, allowing only letters and documents, which hit small businesses such as a Wellington beret maker whose customers are about 90% American.^{22, 23 Aug 2025}

What's next

Individual senders may be able to ship packages within 10 days, but businesses could face delays of several weeks as the service works through the new regime.^{26 Aug 2025}

Key moments

1. 1 Aug 2025Trump signs order setting 15% tariff on New Zealand exports
2. 2 Aug 2025Trade Minister raises tariff hike with US trade representative
3. 22 Aug 2025Minister says tariff tied to New Zealand's trade surplus with US
4. 22 Aug 2025NZ Post suspends most US shipping, allowing only letters and documents
5. 23 Aug 2025Wellington beret business warns of closure after US shipping halt
6. 25 Aug 2025Small business refunds about $500 to customers after suspension
7. 26 Aug 2025NZ Post says US services expected to resume within weeks
8. 28 Aug 2025NZ Post resumes business parcels to US; personal gifts still excluded

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.