The introduction of a €3 customs duty on parcels valued under €150 has led to a significant drop in imports from China, with figures showing a decline of 30 to 40%. This change, effective since July 1, aims to level the playing field for European retailers who have long faced stricter regulations compared to their foreign counterparts.
The impact is evident in the sales figures of major platforms like Temu and AliExpress, which saw reductions of 50% and 37% respectively. Shein, while also affected, managed a smaller decline of 15%, partly due to plans for a new warehouse in Poland that could mitigate some tax burdens.
This regulatory shift not only addresses economic disparities but also raises safety concerns, as over 60% of low-value items inspected previously failed to meet EU standards. The new customs rules enable authorities to better monitor and control the influx of potentially hazardous products.
While the current measures are temporary, they signal a broader reform of the European customs system expected by 2028. Additional fees for parcel handling may also be introduced in November, further shaping the landscape of online shopping in Europe.
Source: Euronews
