The European Union is introducing additional charges for handling small packages, aiming to regulate the e-commerce market and ensure fair competition. This measure is part of a broader package of reforms that includes the adoption of regulations on the establishment of the Union Customs Code and a new EU customs authority. The aim is to create clearer and fairer frameworks for business within the single market.
The key innovation is the introduction of a three-euro levy, which applies to shipments valued at less than 150 euros. This measure will come into force on 1 July 2026. It is important to note that this is a separate charge payable in addition to the existing handling fee, with the aim of ensuring that processing costs and administrative obligations are properly covered. The European Commission is currently in the process of determining the exact amount of additional fees, while the fixed fee of three euros has already been defined in response to the challenges posed by the large number of packages entering the EU without the payment of corresponding duties.
In addition to financial aspects, stricter sanctions have been introduced for e-commerce operators who fail to meet their customs obligations. This measure is part of a broader effort to ensure fair market competition, given that many sellers outside the EU previously had an advantage due to avoiding the payment of customs duties. This aims to prevent unfair practices and ensure that all participants in the market have equal conditions for business.
As part of these reforms, customs procedures have been streamlined for the most reliable traders, which should facilitate their business operations. At the same time, a single EU customs data centre has been established in Lille, France, which will begin operations in 2027. This centre plays a key role in coordinating and monitoring customs procedures within the Union, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the management of goods flows.
Registration of imports into the EU and exports from the EU in the data centre will be mandatory for e-commerce businesses from 1 July 2028, while for other traders the deadline is 1 March 2034. These changes aim to ensure consistency and transparency in customs procedures, with the aim of ensuring that all participants in the market have equal conditions for business.
It is important to note that the three-euro levy is payable on each individual item in the shipment, in accordance with their tariff codes. This measure aims to ensure that all products are assessed correctly and that the possibility of evading payment of customs duties is avoided. This aims to ensure that all participants in the market have equal conditions for business, which will contribute to the stability and security of the European market.
