EU imposes new fee on shipments

Starting July 1, the European Union is introducing a new fee for goods shipped from countries outside the EU to individuals within member states. This new charge, set at three euros (approximately 430 ISK), will affect all small packages valued at under 150 euros (around 21,600 ISK).

The fee will be levied in addition to existing value-added tax and other import duties where applicable. This is presented as an interim measure, intended to be in place until July 2, 2028. During this period, the EU is working on more extensive customs reforms.

While the rules were approved in February, the European Commission did not release its formal guidelines until June 2. The new charge will also apply to shipments originating from EFTA countries, including Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. This move is part of broader efforts to harmonize customs procedures and potentially generate revenue within the EU bloc.