Federal Express Corp. (FedEx), one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, said it is increasing support for Philippine exporters and other Asia Pacific businesses dealing with the impact of new US de minimis exemption rules.
The revised policy, which lowered the value threshold for duty-free entry of imported goods into the United States, has increased compliance costs and documentation requirements for exporters.
This affects many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines that rely on e-commerce shipments to US buyers, threatening to narrow profit margins and slow fulfillment times.
It said to help businesses adapt, FedEx held webinars across nine Asia Pacific markets, including the Philippines, engaging more than 3,800 participants from SMEs to large corporations.
The sessions provided practical guidance on customs clearance, cost control, and automation to maintain efficiency amid shifting trade rules.
Salil Chari, FedEx senior vice president for marketing and customer experience for Asia Pacific, said that by combining deep regulatory expertise, innovative digital tools and the strength of its global network, “we help Asia Pacific businesses improve cost and duty transparency, reduce clearance friction, and unlock new growth opportunities across the region and Europe with confidence.”
Feedback from the FedEx sessions showed shifting trade strategies, with one-fourth of respondents still identifying the United States as their main export market, while over 40 percent plan to expand focus toward intra-Asia and Europe in the next 12 months.
Cost transparency and duty predictability also emerged as top priorities for businesses seeking greater stability in cross-border operations.
FedEx has introduced several solutions to aid businesses, including the FedEx US Tariff Hub, which provides up-to-date information on tariffs, documentation and customs policies.
The company also offers AI-powered tools such as an automated Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code lookup and a customs chatbot to enhance accuracy and speed.
The company recently launched its Go-To Europe Hub across five Asia Pacific markets—Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines and Singapore—providing local businesses with market insights and resources to pursue growth opportunities in Europe.
