Greek customs abolish low‑value parcel exemption, impose €3 per item fee

The Hellenic Customs Authority (HAAD) has ended the customs exemption for low‑value goods up to €150 imported from non‑EU countries, introducing a special per‑line tariff of €3 on B2C e‑commerce shipments. The measure targets imports from places such as China and the United States and takes effect at Greek and EU customs points starting Wednesday. The fee is applied per line of customs clearance; for example, three products in a single parcel incur €3, while the same three items shipped in separate parcels cost €9. The tariff is temporary, remaining in force until 1 July 2028, after which regular customs rates will apply.

The regulation also mandates the use of product identifiers (PID) to curb false declarations, with a voluntary period from 1 July 2026 to 31 October 2026 and compulsory use beginning 1 November 2026. HAAD emphasises that the change aims to rationalise imports and increase transparency. Consumers may face higher total costs, prompting some order cancellations, and the responsibility for paying the €3 fee lies with the declarant – typically the online platform, seller, or customs representative – though couriers may pass the charge onto the buyer.