European Union finance ministers have reached a landmark agreement to accelerate new customs rules aimed at tightening controls on cheap parcels arriving from China, a move that could significantly impact fast-growing online retailers Shein and Temu.
The decision, finalized during a meeting in Brussels, seeks to close loopholes that allow low-value imports to enter the EU with minimal scrutiny or tax. The reform would remove the current exemption for goods valued under €150, meaning all imports including small online orders will be subject to full customs checks and VAT collection.
Officials say the measure is designed to ensure fair competition for European businesses and curb a flood of ultra-cheap imports that often bypass safety and environmental standards.
While the European Commission has not targeted specific companies, industry observers note that the rule change could slow delivery times and raise costs for Shein, Temu, and similar platforms that rely on high volumes of low cost shipments directly from Chinese warehouses.
The new customs regime is expected to take effect in 2028, pending approval from the European Parliament.
source: reuters.com