European Union imposes €3 fee per product category on low-cost parcels from China

The measure will take effect on 1 July 2026 and will apply to shipments valued under €150 that enter the EU market. Under the new framework, duties will be calculated based on each distinct customs subcategory represented within a parcel.

Why the EU Is Introducing the Measure
According to the European Commission, small parcels have so far entered the EU duty-free, creating what it describes as unfair competition for EU-based sellers.

The Commission noted that the volume of such shipments has doubled annually since 2022. In 2024 alone, 4.6 billion small parcels entered the EU market, with 91% originating from China.

The new rules aim to level the playing field for European businesses and address the rapid expansion of ultra-low-cost cross-border e-commerce.

How the €3 Charge Works
The duty will be applied per customs subcategory contained in a parcel.

For example:

If a package includes one silk blouse and two wool blouses, the items fall under two separate customs subcategories.

As a result, the parcel would incur €6 in duties (€3 per subcategory).

This means that even a single shipment may be subject to multiple charges depending on the diversity of goods included.

The regulation marks a significant shift in EU trade policy toward low-value imports, reflecting broader concerns over market distortion, regulatory compliance, and the sustainability of domestic retail sectors.