World Jun 29, 2026 · 1 min read

EU introduces €3 customs charge on small parcels to curb cheap Chinese imports

Parcels of goods worth under €150 will no longer enjoy ‘de minimis’ exemption, exploited by platforms such as Temu and Shein The European Commission has said it hopes to prevent the “desertification” of Europe’s high streets, as it prepares to introduce a customs tax on small parcels in an attempt...

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The Guardian
by Lisa O’Carroll Senior correspondent
EU introduces €3 customs charge on small parcels to curb cheap Chinese imports

Parcels of goods worth under €150 will no longer enjoy ‘de minimis’ exemption, exploited by platforms such as Temu and Shein

The European Commission has said it hopes to prevent the “desertification” of Europe’s high streets, as it prepares to introduce a customs tax on small parcels in an attempt to curb cheap Chinese imports.

Consumers have been able to buy up to €150 (£129) worth of goods, including fast fashion, cosmetics and toys, without any customs charges as part of a “de minimis” exemption, a tariff break meaning “too small to matter”.

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This article was originally published by The Guardian and written by Lisa O’Carroll Senior correspondent.

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