Trump appears to be setting an example even in Brussels. After previously criticising US tariffs, the European Commission now intends to apply its own on low-value imports from third countries, currently exempt from such charges. It is estimated that in 2024 approximately 4.6 billion packages entered the EU without being subject to customs duties. The measure is primarily aimed at Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Temu and Shein.
The Commission’s proposal involves introducing a flat-rate tariff of two euros on each parcel purchased directly by consumers. If the parcel is destined for a logistics hub, the unit charge would be reduced to fifty cents. According to early information from the Italian Customs Agency, duties could range from 5% to 17% of the product’s value, with a particular focus on clothing and footwear sectors. To implement this regulation, non-EU online sellers would be required to register for VAT purposes and ensure their products comply with European standards.
Supporters of the initiative cite four main objectives: tackling unfair competition resulting from the exemption for non-European platforms, improving the safety and quality of imported goods, generating additional revenue to cover customs inspection costs and fund the EU budget, and fostering economic growth and competitiveness among European retailers.
The proposal is currently in its final stages of discussion in Brussels and is supported by countries such as France and Italy. The general consensus favours removing the exemption threshold and introducing new rules for online trade. However, doubts remain as to whether the measure will achieve its stated goals. It will certainly increase public revenues, although it will also incur costs to establish and maintain the system and carry out the necessary checks. Yet it is unlikely that a two-euro charge will deter the purchase of such low-cost goods. It also remains to be seen whether there is a meaningful link between the duty and the product’s quality, which can already be monitored under the current system.
A likely scenario is that Europe will adopt a model similar to the United States, which abolished the exemption for shipments valued below 800 euros. In response, non-European platforms may choose to establish logistics centres within the Union, allowing them to operate under free market conditions. In this case, the additional cost would be just fifty cents per item, easily absorbed by either the extra-EU exporters or European consumers.
