New EU Customs Duty on Low-Value Imports Takes Effect
A new three-euro customs duty for low-value online purchases from outside the EU came into force today. The fee applies to shipments valued at up to 150 euros, targeting the rapid growth of parcel traffic, particularly from Chinese online retailers.
The regulation aims to address the surge in low-cost imports, which has led to what officials describe as a "parcel flood." According to MTV Uutiset, the majority of these shipments received by private individuals originate from China. The customs duty is to be paid by the seller, though it remains unclear how this will impact final retail prices for consumers.
Yle reports that the measure responds to the significant increase in low-value import shipments in recent years. While the long-term effects on pricing are uncertain, logistics provider PostNord previously suggested to MTV Uutiset that the duty may reduce purchases from Chinese online stores.
The change follows recent scrutiny of products from platforms like Temu, after the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes) tested faucets sold on the site and found concerning results (MTV Uutiset). The new customs duty is part of broader efforts to regulate cross-border e-commerce.