CroatiaThe European Union has implemented new customs duties on small-value packages imported directly from Chinese platforms like Temu, Shein, and AliExpress, aiming to level the playing field for European traders. Starting July 1, a fixed €3 duty per product category applies to shipments valued at up to €150, leading to a noticeable decline in such imports. According to French customs data, the volume of small packages entering the EU dropped by 30–40% within weeks of the policy’s implementation. Sales on Temu halved between June and August, while AliExpress saw a 37% drop and Shein experienced a smaller 15% decline. The EU cited concerns over unfair advantages for foreign platforms, lack of compliance with safety standards, and the need for a more comprehensive customs reform by 2028. Platforms have started adapting by relocating warehouses inside the EU or absorbing the costs into product prices.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data on the impact of EU customs policies on e-commerce platforms without overtly favoring any side. It includes quotes from official sources and provides balanced context on both the policy's goals and the responses from affected companies.
