Greek e‑commerce group sees early success of €3 micro‑parcel fee

The Greek Association of Electronic Commerce (ESEE) reported that the €3 per‑item fee on micro‑parcels, which took effect on 1 July 2026 for shipments entering Greece via online platforms from third‑country sellers, is already showing positive early results. Market estimates indicate a noticeable slowdown in the flow of low‑value parcels, suggesting the measure is deterring part of the influx and helping to restore fair competition for Greek merchants. Official statistics from the authorities are expected soon to provide a full assessment.

ESEE President Stavos Kafounis said the first signs are encouraging and called for the European Union to introduce a handling fee and accelerate the removal of the de minimis exemption (currently up to €150). He emphasized that the goal is equal rules, safety standards and compliance for all businesses operating in the EU market. The association quoted Kafounis: «Οι πρώτες ενδείξεις από την εφαρμογή του μέτρου είναι θετικές και δείχνουν ότι η κατεύθυνση της παρέμβασης είναι η σωστή. Είναι ακόμη νωρίς για οριστικά συμπεράσματα, ωστόσο φαίνεται ότι το τέλος των 3 ευρώ λειτουργεί αποτρεπτικά για μέρος των μικροδεμάτων που εισέρχονται από τρίτες χώρες, συμβάλλοντας στην αποκατάσταση συνθηκών δικαιότερου ανταγωνισμού.»