New EU customs duties on online purchases from third countries

Starting July 1, 2026, the European Union will implement a new temporary customs duty of 3 euros on each distinct product item for online orders originating from outside the EU. This regulation applies to parcels valued under 150 euros and aims to create fair competition between EU businesses and non-EU e-commerce platforms like Temu and Shein. Unlike previous exemptions for low-value goods, these duties are calculated per distinct product type rather than per parcel. If a single package contains multiple distinct types of goods, the 3-euro fee applies to each category separately. Customs spokesperson Giorgos Konstantinou clarified that the collection method depends on whether the online store participates in the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) system. Gifts valued up to 45 euros exchanged between individuals remain exempt from this new duty. The initiative is supported by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as a measure to manage the high volume of low-value imports entering the European market.