EU Finance Ministers agree to end duty-free entry for small parcels
9 days ago
- #e-commerce
- #trade policy
- #EU customs reform
- EU finance ministers agreed to eliminate customs duty exemptions on packages below €150 imported into the EU from 2026.
- The decision aims to close loopholes used to dodge customs duties, such as undervaluation or splitting shipments.
- 4.6 billion low-cost packages were imported into the EU in 2024, with 91% coming from China.
- A proposed €2 'handling fee' per parcel from non-EU e-commerce platforms could be implemented by end of 2025.
- Business groups support the removal of the exemption but argue the proposed fee is too low to significantly reduce parcel volumes.
- Some stakeholders suggest higher fees (e.g., €20 per parcel) to reflect environmental and societal costs.