New EU customs regulations for non-EU online purchases effective July 2026

Starting July 1, 2026, all European Union member states will implement new customs rules regarding products purchased from non-EU countries. The exemption from import duties for parcels valued at up to €150 will be abolished. Instead, a temporary customs duty of €3 will be imposed on each item contained within a parcel valued up to €150 that is shipped as part of a distance sale. An item is defined by its specific Taric code, Combined Nomenclature code, description, and origin. This duty will be added to the taxable value for VAT calculations, resulting in a higher cost for consumers. The measure aims to create a level playing field between EU businesses and non-EU competitors. Exemptions for non-commercial gifts sent between private individuals, valued up to €45, remain in effect under Regulation 4 of KDP 378/2004, provided no payment is involved. These changes are also expected to impact the process of returning goods purchased from abroad.