In 2025, the countries of the European Union decided to accelerate the introduction of tariffs on low-cost parcels arriving from outside the EU. Now, the cancellation of benefits for goods valued up to 150 euros will take place in 2026, rather than in 2028 as previously planned. This decision directly affects major Chinese online platforms such as Shein and Temu, which have captured a significant share of the European market in recent years thanks to their low prices and fast delivery.
The reason for such drastic changes was concern among European authorities about the safety and quality of goods, as well as the growing burden on customs services. Over the past year, the number of cheap parcels entering the EU climbed to a record 4.6 billion—nearly double the previous year—creating major challenges for monitoring and enforcing compliance with standards. European companies, especially retail chains, have long complained about unfair competition, as local manufacturers are required to pay duties while foreign online giants are exempt.
Why is the EU rushing the reform?
Authorities note that the flow of inexpensive goods from abroad not only undermines the position of European manufacturers but also increases risks for consumers. Among millions of parcels, there are often counterfeits, goods that violate safety standards, and even products harmful to the environment. In addition, the current customs control system is no longer able to cope with the volume: more than 97% of all import declarations come from online trade, and there are not enough resources for proper inspection.
To ease the workload of national customs, Brussels has proposed creating a unified European body to coordinate the processing of parcel data and help member states handle the pressure. The expectation is that this will help detect violations faster and collect duties more efficiently.
What will change for shoppers and businesses
Starting in 2026, all parcels—even the cheapest ones—will be subject to duties. For shoppers, this means paying more for orders from Shein, Temu, AliExpress and other foreign retailers. The impact will be especially noticeable for light industry goods, where the absence of duties often drove down prices. For European retailers and manufacturers, the new rule is a chance to regain competitiveness and defend their positions in the domestic market.
At the same time, experts warn about possible challenges with the implementation of the new rules. Customs services are already operating at full capacity, and transitioning to the new system will require significant investment in technology and staff training. However, the European Union is confident that accelerating the reform will not only protect the economy but also enhance safety for millions of consumers.
