Under new proposals by the French government, residents ordering online items from non-EU countries like the UK and US will encounter enhanced border checks and be subject to additional handling fees. This measure is aimed particularly at goods from China, especially as the EU prepares for increased imports amidst ongoing US tariffs. Currently, small parcels valued under â¬150 avoid customs duties, but the proposal intends to apply charges regardless of the local vendor, worsening competitive conditions for French retailers while also addressing environmental concerns related to shipping volumes.
French ministers have proposed strengthening border checks and adding a small 'handling fee' to goods purchased online from outside of the EU.
The proposal is intended to target goods coming from China as Europe prepares for the country to increase the number of goods sold in Europe following US tariffs.
In 2024, 4.6 billion packages each worth under â¬150 entered the EU, with 91 percent originating in China.
The fee would be 'a few euros or a few cents' per item purchased and it would help cover the cost of checking incoming packages.
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