New levy on non-EU parcels kicks in November 1
Summary
The European Union will impose a two-euro handling fee on small parcels from outside the bloc starting November 1, targeting the surge of cheap imports from China. Online marketplaces and sellers will bear the cost, which Brussels says is meant to ease pressure on customs authorities and improve product safety checks.
Key Points
- The European Union will charge a two-euro handling fee on each type of item in parcels sent directly to consumers from outside the bloc starting November 1.
- The levy is aimed at curbing the flood of cheap imports, especially from China, and easing pressure on customs authorities.
- Online marketplaces and sellers such as Amazon, AliExpress and Temu must pay the fee, though costs may be passed on to consumers through higher prices.
- The EU says the measure is permanent, while the existing three-euro duty on low-value parcels remains temporary until July 1, 2028.
