EU finance ministers on Friday approved a three‑euro levy on all small parcels imported into the bloc starting July 1, 2026. The measure is intended to curb the surge of low‑cost imports from platforms such as Shein and Temu.
This decision follows last month’s agreement by the bloc to eliminate the duty exemption for parcels valued under €150, often sent directly to consumers via Chinese-based platforms.
According to an EU spokesperson, the fixed charge will be applied on an interim basis and remain in effect until the EU establishes a long-term framework for taxing these imports.
In 2024, the EU received 4.6 billion small parcels, averaging over 145 every second, with 91% originating from China. EU officials anticipate these figures will continue to rise.
European retailers contend that they are at a disadvantage against foreign platforms like AliExpress, Shein, and Temu, which they allege frequently sidestep the EU’s strict product regulations.
France, an EU member state, has elevated the issue to a priority, citing the 800 million parcels delivered to the country last year and mounting domestic calls for decisive action.
French Finance Minister Roland Lescure hailed the flat tax as “a major victory for the European Union.”
“Europe is taking concrete steps to protect its single market, its consumers and its sovereignty,” he said.
The measure aligns with the EU’s goal of boosting Europe’s competitiveness by streamlining regulations and facilitating business activity.
In addition to removing the duty exemption, the EU executive also proposed a two‑euro handling charge for small packages in May. While member states have yet to agree on the precise figure, they expect the measure to take effect by late 2026.
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