European Union implements new fees for non-EU online shopping

The European Union is implementing a major reform of its Customs Code to manage the high volume of low-cost shipments from non-EU countries. This reform introduces new fees that will increase the cost of online shopping from platforms such as Temu, Shein, and AliExpress.

Under the new rules, small parcels with a total value of up to 150 euros will be subject to a temporary flat-rate duty of 3 euros per item. Additionally, a new processing fee of 2 euros per product is scheduled to be introduced, potentially bringing the total increase to 5 euros per item. While the specific amount of the processing fee is to be determined by the European Commission, it is expected to be reflected in final product prices.

In Slovakia, the Financial Administration has warned consumers that fees labeled as ‘customs’ by foreign platforms do not necessarily cover official customs debts. In Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Association for Electronic Commerce notes that these rising costs are already shifting consumer behavior, with many shoppers turning back to domestic retailers for similar goods.