The introduction of new border control rules may change the familiar routine for thousands of Spaniards who order goods online. Tighter inspection of imported products is intended to protect local businesses and consumers from low-quality goods arriving from outside the European Union. In recent years, the volume of parcels from other countries has grown significantly, raising concerns among both manufacturers and buyers.
The Ministry of Economy of Spain has announced the launch of a large-scale plan to tighten control over industrial goods entering the country. Special attention is being paid to small parcels worth less than 150 euros, which are most often ordered from popular online platforms. These packages will now undergo more thorough inspections to ensure they meet European safety and quality standards.
New regulations for online shopping
The authorities plan to create a working group with representatives from major online marketplaces to make them responsible for the safety of products sold. According to RUSSPAIN.COM, discussions are underway about introducing additional requirements for platforms to monitor the origin and quality of goods arriving on the Spanish market. This is expected to reduce the risk of dangerous or counterfeit goods finding their way into circulation.
The new plan also includes expanding the list of industrial goods subject to mandatory border controls. The list may include building materials, flooring, and other categories of products that previously were not subject to such strict checks. Authorities aim to secure agreement on minimum control standards across the European Union to ensure a level playing field for all market participants.
Technology and coordination
To enhance the effectiveness of controls, digital tools are expected to be implemented to more quickly identify violations and track suspicious shipments. Coordination between central and regional authorities will become closer, allowing for rapid responses to new threats. In the coming months, the Ministry of Economy, together with the autonomous regions, will refine plan details to present the final version by autumn.
One of the key objectives will be to create an early warning system for import-related risks. Representatives from various sectors will be involved, enabling quicker detection of fraud attempts or the import of substandard goods. The government will provide technical support to the regions so they can manage situations more effectively on the ground.
Implications for the market and consumers
Stricter controls may lead to longer delivery times and additional checks for customers ordering goods from abroad. However, authorities are convinced that these measures are necessary to protect the interests of Spanish companies and prevent unfair competition. In the long term, this should increase trust in online shopping and reduce the number of complaints about low-quality products.
In recent years, Spain has already faced problems related to the mass import of cheap products from countries outside the EU. In 2024, similar measures were discussed to control electronics and children’s goods, which helped to reduce the number of dangerous items on the market. Comparable initiatives have been adopted in other European Union countries, where a rise in online commerce and a growing number of complaints about imported product quality are also noted. The introduction of new rules in Spain could set an example for other states in the region.
