"EU Cracks Down on Cheap Chinese Imports: 'De Minimis' Exemption to be Scrapped In a bid to revive Europe's struggling high streets, the European Commission is set to introduce a customs tax on small parcels worth under €150. The move aims to curb the influx of cheap Chinese imports, which have been flooding the continent through online platforms such as Temu and Shein Business. The "de minimis" exemption, which allowed consumers to buy up to €150 worth of goods without customs charges, has been exploited by retailers, leading to a surge in low-cost, low-quality products. By introducing a customs tax, the EU hopes to level the playing field for local businesses and prevent the "desertification" of Europe's high streets."
Parcels of goods worth under €150 will no longer enjoy ‘de minimis’ exemption, exploited by platforms such as Temu and SheinBusiness live – latest updatesThe European Commission has said it hopes to prevent the “desertification” of Europe’s high streets, as it prepares to introduce a customs tax on small parcels in an attempt to curb cheap Chinese imports.Consumers have been able to buy up to €150 (£129) worth of goods, including fast fashion, cosmetics and toys, without any customs charges as part of a “de minimis” exemption, a tariff break meaning “too small to matter”. Continue reading...
