European Union finance ministers have agreed to introduce a €3 customs charge on all small parcels arriving from outside the bloc, starting on 1 July 2026.
The move is aimed at curbing the dominance of online platforms such as Shein, Temu and AliExpress.
The decision follows last month’s approval to scrap the exemption from customs duties on parcels worth less than €150, which are often purchased directly by consumers through Chinese e‑commerce sites. An EU spokesperson said the flat fee would remain in place until a permanent solution on tariffs is agreed.
Italy has already announced plans to impose a €2 levy on such parcels from 1 January 2026, with the measure included in its draft budget. France is expected to follow suit, with a similar provision in its 2026 budget proposal.
The EU move comes amid wider trade tensions and is intended to stem the flow of low‑cost Chinese goods that officials say fail to meet European standards.
Retailers across the bloc have long complained of unfair competition from overseas platforms that do not always comply with strict EU product rules.
According to EU figures, 4.6 billion small parcels entered the bloc last year — more than 145 every second — with 91% originating from China. Officials expect the numbers to rise further.