The European Union finance ministers approved yesterday (13/11) the abolition of duty-free exemptions for packages imported into Europe valued under 150 euros.
More specifically, the EU hopes to implement this measure from the first quarter of 2026, aimed at addressing the massive influx of Chinese products ordered through platforms like Temu and Shein, which do not comply with European regulations.
It should be noted that this measure was proposed in February by the European Commission and was initially set to be implemented in mid-2028, alongside the customs union reform, a massive harmonization and data-sharing project between member states. However, member countries and the Commission want to move faster and implement it from the first quarter of 2026, through a transitional system expected to be approved at the upcoming ministerial meeting on December 12.
In any case, it is emphasized that the amount of these charges has not yet been determined, but Brussels proposed in May that it should amount to two euros per package. The EU hopes to be able to implement this measure from the end of 2026.
Greece’s position on Shein and Temu
Greek Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis also expressed his agreement yesterday (14/11) with the aforementioned EU decision, during the ECOFIN meeting in Brussels.
More specifically, Mr. Pierrakakis stated that “regarding customs duties, I would like to emphasize that Greece fully supports the Commission’s proposal for abolishing the 150 euro minimum threshold, thus allowing the possibility of imposing tariffs on low-value packages from third countries within EU borders,” adding that “we believe this policy is extremely important for e-commerce transparency, for protecting European consumers, and for creating a level playing field for European businesses.”
In conclusion, Mr. Pierrakakis emphasized that “I would also like to stress that Greece fully supports France’s position to implement this measure, requesting immediate implementation on an even earlier timeline, from early 2026. This is an extremely important issue for European Union customs and for the Union as a whole.”
