The European Commission unveiled a plan to tighten regulations on low-cost parcels from Chinese online retailers, aiming to address the surge in e-commerce imports and ensure consumer safety, according to Politico.
The new measures, announced on Wednesday, include stricter customs checks, enhanced market surveillance, and a proposed “non-discriminatory handling fee” to help customs authorities manage the influx of goods.
The crackdown could significantly impact platforms like AliExpress, Shein, and Temu, which have gained popularity in Europe by offering affordable products, often priced under €10. EU data reveals that 4.6 billion low-value items—valued at under €22 and currently exempt from customs duties—reached European consumers last year, double the 2023 figure. A staggering 91% of these parcels originated from China.
EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen called for a “competitive e-commerce sector that keeps consumers safe, offers convenient products, and is respectful of the environment.”
The rise in e-commerce imports to the EU market has brought with it many challenges.
The Commission’s e-commerce action plan calls for stricter enforcement of existing rules, and increased scrutiny of faulty or counterfeit products. It also urges the European Parliament and Council of the EU to fast-track discussions on a 2023 customs reform proposal.
Scrapping a €150 parcel tax break is expected to generate an additional €1 billion annually for customs authorities. However, details about the new handling fee, including its amount and implementation, remain unclear.
Consumer protection and industry impact
The Commission also announced that Shein, a fast-fashion retailer, would face a coordinated investigation by European consumer protection watchdogs over suspected breaches of EU rules. A Shein spokesperson expressed support for efforts to enhance consumer trust and safety.
We believe that a level competitive playing field can benefit the entire ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Temu, another Chinese e-commerce platform, is already under investigation for allegedly selling illegal products and using addictive design practices.
The EU’s move aligns with broader international efforts to regulate Chinese e-commerce. In the US, President Donald Trump recently announced tariffs on Chinese goods and suspended packages from China and Hong Kong, citing the need to end duty exemptions for low-value parcels.
