The introduction of a €3 customs charge on small parcels valued under €150 is set to have a significant impact on Europe's e-commerce landscape, as the European Union seeks to curb the surge in low-value imports. With 5.9 billion packages entering the bloc in 2025 alone, compared to just 1.3 billion in 2022, this measure aims to safeguard European high streets and businesses from what officials have described as a "desertification" of traditional retail spaces.
According to data released by the EU, an alarming 90% of these parcels originate from China, with online platforms like Shein and Temu driving the trend. The dramatic increase in low-value imports has put pressure on local retailers, who have seen significant job losses and declining sales as a result. To put this into perspective, if the average value of each parcel is €100, the total value of these imports would be approximately €59 billion, underscoring the scale of the issue.
Furthermore, research conducted by the EU has highlighted a worrying trend of non-compliance among imported products. A staggering 60% of online goods from outside the bloc fail to meet EU standards, with cosmetics and toys showing particularly high rates of non-compliance at 65%. Other categories, such as food supplements and professional personal protective equipment, also posed significant safety risks to consumers.
The introduction of the €3 charge is expected to create a more level playing field for European small businesses and retailers who adhere to local regulations and standards. By deterring consumers from purchasing low-value items and encouraging non-EU retailers to undertake more rigorous customs declarations, this measure seeks to protect consumer safety while also promoting fair competition.
The UK Treasury's announcement that it will begin charging import duties on small parcels valued under £135 from October 2028 is a timely move in line with international trends. This development underscores the need for coordinated action across borders to address the challenges posed by cross-border e-commerce.