The European Union has introduced new customs rules for e-commerce, with the aim of strengthening controls on goods imported from third countries and ensuring a more level playing field for European businesses. Among the main changes is the abolition of the custom duty exemption for parcels valued under €150. To address loopholes that have emerged in recent years, a transitional fee of EUR 3 per item is also foreseen for goods coming from third countries. The measure aims to enhance consumer protection by reducing the risk of non-compliant or potentially unsafe products entering the European market, while ensuring that imported goods comply with EU standards on safety, health and the environment. Online platforms will be responsible for collecting duties at the time of purchase, preventing unexpected costs at delivery and increasing transparency for consumers. The reform is also expected to help reduce the environmental impact linked to packaging and long-distance shipping, while greater data sharing between customs authorities and digital platforms will make controls more effective. Overall, the new system paves the way for the broader EU customs reform planned for 2028 and marks a concrete step toward a safer, fairer, and more sustainable European market.
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