The European Union is introducing a €2 fee on parcels entering its market from November 1, 2026, as authorities seek to address the rapid growth of low-cost imports, particularly from China, Euronews reports.
The new measure is intended to help cover the increasing administrative and inspection costs faced by European customs authorities as millions of packages enter the EU every day.
Who Will Pay the New Fee?
According to the reported rules, the €2 charge will apply to incoming parcels regardless of their value.
The fee will be paid by online marketplaces, sellers or transport operators and collected by EU member states.
Of the revenue generated, 75% will go to the EU budget, while the remaining 25% will be retained by individual member states.
The new charge is separate from the €3 customs duty reportedly introduced in July for small parcels valued below €150.
The measure is described as temporary and is expected to remain in place until 2028, when a new customs processing IT system is scheduled to become operational.
Chinese Online Platforms Under Increasing Scrutiny
The EU has been tightening its approach to imports amid the growing popularity of Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress.
According to European Commission figures cited in the report, China accounted for approximately 91% of small parcels entering the EU in 2024.
Around five million such packages reportedly enter the European market every day, creating additional pressure on customs services and competition for European retailers.
The report also states that small-parcel imports declined by approximately 60% between July and September following the introduction of earlier customs measures.
Despite that decrease, shipment volumes remain substantial, prompting European authorities to introduce additional measures aimed at managing cross-border e-commerce.
