UPDATE: The European Union has just announced a significant new measure impacting online shoppers and retailers alike. Starting on July 1, 2026, a €3 customs fee will be imposed on all parcels valued under €150 entering the EU, specifically targeting e-commerce giants like Shein and Temu.
This urgent measure comes as EU finance ministers convened on Friday to combat the overwhelming influx of ultra-low-cost goods from non-EU countries, particularly China. In 2024 alone, approximately 4.6 billion parcels valued under €150 entered the EU, translating to over 145 parcels every second. This surge has raised serious concerns among European retailers, who argue that these platforms benefit from unfair advantages while bypassing essential EU regulations.
The newly approved fee is part of a broader effort to enhance customs controls and protect local businesses. Each parcel will incur a flat fee of €3—applying per item category for mixed shipments—significantly increasing costs for those who split orders into multiple parcels. This policy targets platforms that have proliferated since the EU’s decision to eliminate previous customs duty exemptions, which allowed many inexpensive items to flood the market with minimal oversight.
French Economy Minister Roland Lescure emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The introduction of a flat-rate charge on small parcels is a major victory for the European Union.” The fee is viewed as a temporary solution while a more comprehensive framework is developed to manage the billions of incoming shipments, with additional processing fees expected from November 2026.
Retailers across Europe have long complained about the challenges posed by these low-cost imports, which often evade EU product safety, consumer protection, and environmental standards. The introduction of the customs fee is seen as vital to restoring a level playing field for local businesses.
Officials report that 91 percent of these parcels originate from China, leading to an escalating burden on customs authorities, which struggle to intercept counterfeit and potentially hazardous products. With the implementation of the new fee, authorities hope to alleviate some of this pressure while simultaneously increasing revenue to bolster customs operations.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on the EU as it works to establish a more permanent solution to address the complexities of international e-commerce. The urgency of this situation highlights the pressing need for reform in customs practices to adapt to the rapid growth of online shopping.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and its implications for both consumers and retailers across Europe.
