The EU will impose tariffs on small parcels

Countries and regions have successively taken countermeasures against Chinese e-commerce platforms such as SHEIN. Following the US’s cancellation of tax exemptions for small parcels, the EU has also decided to impose a €3 tax on small parcels.

France is considering its own tax plan. Countries and regions are concerned about the influx of low-priced Chinese products, which could squeeze the profits of their domestic retailers.

At a ministerial meeting on December 12, EU member states decided to impose taxes on small parcels under €150, which were previously tax-free, starting in July 2026. 93% of all imported products purchased online will be subject to this tax.

In addition to the EU’s new regulations, France has included provisions for taxing imported parcels in its 2026 budget. During deliberations in the French Senate, the government increased its proposed €2 to €5. The French Ministry of Economy and Finance stated that if the tax is implemented, imported parcels will be subject to both EU and French taxes, depending on the type of goods.