The European Union aims to introduce a €2 handling fee on low-value online shopping packages entering the bloc, targeting billions of cheap goods from platforms like Shein and Temu. The move seeks to cover the high costs of customs compliance and safety checks.
The European Union is preparing to propose a €2 ($2.27) handling fee on low-value e-commerce packages imported into the bloc. This initiative responds to the surge of cheap goods sold by online platforms such as Shein and Temu to European consumers.
In 2024, EU customs authorities processed approximately 4.6 billion low-value parcels, with 91% originating from China - doubling the volume compared to 2023. The European Commission previously announced plans to remove the duty-free status for packages valued up to €150 , effective in 2028, and is now considering introducing a handling fee for e-commerce shipments.
The proposed fee, which still requires approval from EU member states and the European Parliament, is designed to offset the costs of ensuring compliance with EU regulations - including toy safety and other standards. Importantly, the fee would be charged to the online retailers rather than directly to consumers.
Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament's trade committee, emphasized the necessity of the fee during a press briefing: “With 4.6 billion packages, you can’t have proper controls without significant costs. Therefore, it is fair to ask platforms like Alibaba, Temu, or Shein to pay their fair share.”
France has already expressed support for such a measure, and EU officials continue to discuss how best to implement this fee to maintain safety standards and balance the rapid growth of e-commerce imports.
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