Details
- Low-value imports had previously benefited from the EU’s under-€150 duty exemption, which allowed many parcels to enter the bloc without customs duties.
- The European Commission said the measure will help create fairer competition for European retailers and improve checks on unsafe or non-compliant goods.
- EU officials said customs authorities have struggled to process the growing number of small overseas packages.
- Inspections in 2025 found that many imported toys, cosmetics and electronics failed safety requirements or lacked proper documentation.
- The charge applies per customs classification, meaning a parcel with several categories of goods can face multiple €3 fees.
- Online marketplaces are expected to pass at least some of the added cost to consumers, while also pressuring suppliers to lower prices.
- Shein has expanded warehouse capacity in Poland and increased bulk shipments into the EU as platforms adjust to the new rules.
- The flat-rate fee will remain in place until July 2028, when the new EU Customs Authority is expected to introduce category-based import duties.
What Else
The EU’s move follows similar action by the United States and comes as Britain prepares comparable measures, narrowing the options for platforms that relied on duty-free direct shipping. Brussels also plans mandatory product reference information and a separate handling fee later this year to help customs authorities manage the parcel surge.
