In one of the most ambitious reforms of recent years, the European Commission proposes the imposition of a 2 euro fee for each small parcel imported directly into the EU by non -Union countries, with the main aim of getting a brake on the uncontrolled flow of cheap products from platforms such as Shein, Ago and Aliexpress.
According to the proposal presented on May 21, the measure concerns millions of microdes that reach European customs daily – only in 2024, the flow of such parcels to the EU reached 4.6 billion, of which 91% came from China. The end, which will burden online traders, such as Temu and Shein, and not directly consumers, is estimated to help cover the cost of customs controls, which is increasing due to the huge volume of cheap missions.
For parcels sent to warehouses within the EU and then distributed to the European market, the projected fee will be reduced and will be EUR 0.50.
Remove the exemption for imports below 150 euros
Another important part of the reform is the abolition of the so -called “de minimis” exemption, which today allows parcels worth up to 150 euros to be imported without customs duties. Now, all imports – regardless of value – will be subject to VAT and duties, as wide -ranging measure has been observed through degradation of products.
The reform also includes the creation of a single customs authority as well as a pan -European digital data hub. Through it, businesses will be able to submit a single customs statement for all Member States, drastically simplifying the processes and enhancing transparency.
The Commission points out that the new architecture of the customs system will enhance risk management, better protect consumers and ensure fair competition conditions for European businesses facing unfair competition from third countries.
Reactions from China and international platforms – how much Greece is affected
China, for its part, has already reacted to the proposal, calling on the EU to “maintain an open and fair business environment”. Representatives from the platforms involved have expressed concern that the new regime could burden their activities and increase the costs for end consumers.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said the country hopes that the EU will comply with its commitment to an “open” commercial framework and provide a fair, transparent and non -distinctive business environment for Chinese businesses.
In addition, according to Chinese midfielder Global Times, Chinese officials and analysts have expressed the view that the proposed EU measure may increase the costs for Chinese companies and negatively affect trade between China and the EU.
Zu Mi, a senior researcher at the Chinese Academic Institute of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said that the imposition of such fees could increase customs costs and burden the lower income strata, creating obstacles to cross -border trade.
China calls on the EU to carefully consider the consequences of the proposed reform and to maintain an open and fair business environment that will favor the cooperation and development of trade relations between the two sides.
The reform package should be approved by Member States and the European Parliament. Since there are no delays or objections, changes are expected to take effect in 2026.
In Greece, it is estimated that about 8% of the micro -entering each year come from China, which makes the country among the first to be affected by the implementation of the measure, especially in terms of controls and receipts.