EU Tightens Customs Controls on E-commerce to Combat Dangerous Imports
The European Commission has announced stricter customs controls for online retailers, notably China's Shein and Temu, as part of an initiative to tackle the influx of dangerous and non-compliant products entering the European Union (EU). This move responds to the increasing concern over the billions of low-value items flooding the EU market, which often fail to meet the bloc's safety regulations.
Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission's vice president, emphasized the dual challenges that come with the rise of e-commerce. She stated that while the EU aims to foster a competitive online retail environment, it is crucial to ensure consumer safety and uphold environmental standards. "We want to see a competitive e-commerce sector that keeps consumers safe, offers convenient products, and is respectful of the environment," she asserted.
Last year alone, the EU witnessed an influx of 46 billion low-value parcels, averaging around 12 million parcels daily, which is three times more than in 2022. This sharp increase has placed considerable strain on customs authorities as they strive to regulate compliance among numerous online retailers.
In a policy paper published on Wednesday, the Commission outlined its strategy to collaborate with national customs authorities across its 27 member states, focusing on enhancing market surveillance and testing of unsafe online products. The Commission is particularly concerned about the environmental repercussions stemming from cheap imports, including the pollution associated with their production and transportation. Furthermore, it has raised alarm over the burden that low-quality, toxic, or hard-to-recycle products impose on European recycling facilities.
To further reinforce their position, the Commission has urged EU lawmakers and member states to eliminate the duty exemption currently enjoyed by imports priced below €150 (approximately $125). This proposed move, along with the possible imposition of a handling fee on retailers, is aimed at offsetting the rising costs associated with ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
The heightened scrutiny comes on the heels of previous legislative actions sparked by Donald Trump’s 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, which addressed a loophole allowing fast-fashion companies in China to ship goods under $800 into the US duty-free. In October, the Commission also began legal proceedings against Temu, which was accused of failing to effectively prevent the sale of illegal products on its platform.
As the EU prepares these measures, the focus remains squarely on protecting consumers from unsafe products, while also addressing the competitive landscape for European businesses that adhere to the law and contribute positively to consumer safety and environmental sustainability.
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