The European Commission has proposed measures to address risks linked to low-value imports flooding the online marketplace. With the rise in eCommerce transactions, concerns have grown over non-compliant goods entering the European Union (EU) market. The Commission aims to create a fairer environment for European businesses while ensuring that consumers have access to safe and high-quality products. Discussions on policy changes have intensified as data indicates a significant increase in such imports over the past two years.
Similar concerns have been raised in other regions, including the United States, where the de minimis exemption allows small-value shipments to enter the country without tariffs. This has led to debates over potential risks, including counterfeit goods entering markets unchecked. Proposals in both the EU and U.S. reflect broader regulatory shifts aimed at tightening control over eCommerce imports, particularly those originating from China.
What are the key regulatory changes proposed?
One of the primary recommendations is the removal of the duty exemption for parcels under 150 euros, as outlined in the proposed Customs Union Reform Package. The Commission also suggests introducing a handling fee for eCommerce items shipped directly to consumers within the EU. This measure is intended to recover costs associated with compliance monitoring and enforcement.
Additionally, customs and market surveillance authorities may conduct a comprehensive product safety inspection. This initiative aims to identify and remove non-compliant goods while strengthening mechanisms to prevent similar products from entering the market in the future. The Commission emphasized that these actions would improve consumer safety and ensure fair competition for European businesses.
How will online marketplaces be affected?
The proposals also include recommendations for strengthening enforcement of existing EU rules within online marketplaces. Authorities would work to detect non-compliant products and enhance awareness among consumers and traders about their rights and obligations. Increased training on EU product safety regulations is also planned to support regulatory compliance.
A spokesperson from the European Commission stated,
“In Europe, consumers should enjoy the full potential of eCommerce and have access to convenient, affordable, safe, and high-quality products online. Equally so, European businesses should benefit from a level playing field in the Single Market.”
The statement highlights the dual objective of protecting consumers and fostering a competitive business environment.
The proposed measures come in response to a sharp rise in low-value consignments, which have doubled since 2023 and tripled since 2022. Many of these shipments reportedly fail to meet EU regulatory standards, raising concerns about product safety and compliance. The increase in imports from China has particularly drawn attention, with some stakeholders advocating for stricter scrutiny of foreign shipments.
As global eCommerce continues to expand, regulatory bodies face increasing challenges in balancing consumer access with safety and compliance measures. The EU’s approach mirrors similar efforts in other markets, where authorities are considering policy changes to curb the influx of low-value imports. Businesses operating in online retail may need to reassess their sourcing and compliance strategies to adapt to potential regulatory shifts.
