EU imposes 3-euro duty on small parcels to protect consumers and businesses

The European Union has introduced a new 3-euro duty on small parcels valued under 150 euros, which took effect on July 1 across its 27 member states. This move is intended to limit the entry of products, predominantly from China, that do not always meet European standards, thereby protecting consumers and European businesses.

The duty applies per item within a parcel, meaning a package containing a t-shirt and a pair of shoes would incur two separate duties. However, a package with multiple t-shirts would only be subject to a single 3-euro duty. This temporary measure will remain in place until the European customs system undergoes a significant overhaul, expected within two years.

Starting in November, "processing fees" of up to 2 euros per parcel will be added to further finance customs services. The EU accelerated this duty implementation, initially planned for 2028, due to the sharp increase in low-value purchases from Asian platforms like Shein and Temu.

Approximately 4.6 billion small parcels entered the European market in 2024, with 91% originating from China. The EU believes this duty will reduce the influx of potentially hazardous products and counterfeit goods by increasing the cost of very small orders, encouraging platforms to import in larger quantities. Revenues generated will fund customs checks at European airports and ports.

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Online consumers are not responsible for paying the tax. This responsibility falls on the importers or sellers, who then decide whether to pass it on.