Stavros Kafounis Pushes EU Fair Rules for Non‑EU Online Platform Imports

Stavros Kafounis, president of the Hellenic Retail Confederation (ΕΣΕΕ), said the EU’s new measures aim to ensure equal competitive conditions for all retailers, not to restrict trade. The proposal introduces a €3 duty per product category that applies only to online platforms operating outside the European Union, exempting consumers. He noted that an additional tariff will take effect on 1 November to strengthen customs checks and give authorities better insight into product origin, safety and quality.

Kafounis highlighted the broader goal of gradually removing the de minimis exemption for parcels up to €150, a process slated for completion by 2028. He emphasized that the retail sector faces growing pressure as more consumer spending shifts to non‑EU platforms and called for transparency and healthy competition to sustain the market. “We are in favor of free trade, but these products must undergo checks so consumers can compare them with those sold locally,” he said.