Dialogos

EU Sees 26% Rise in Low-Value E-commerce Parcel Imports in 2025

Published January 26, 2026, 19:00
EU Sees 26% Rise in Low-Value E-commerce Parcel Imports in 2025

The European Commission has announced a significant increase in low-value e-commerce parcel imports into the EU, reaching 5.8 billion in 2025, a 26% rise compared to the previous year. This increase is linked to the EU's 'de minimis' policy, which exempts parcels under €150 from customs duties, facilitating the growth of platforms like Temu and Shein. MEP Dirk Gotink described the increase as “unsustainable” and emphasized the need for faster implementation of the European management fee and completion of customs reform. The EU plans to impose a temporary €3 fee on low-value parcels from July 1st, until a final agreement is reached on abolishing the duty exemption. The abolition of the 'de minimis' policy in the United States has raised concerns about a potential redirection of Chinese products to Europe. The European Commission estimates that around 65% of small parcels entering the EU are undervalued to avoid customs duties. Beyond economic concerns, the EU is worried about the risks posed by non-compliant products to consumers, as well as potential negative impacts on European industries, particularly retail. The majority of imports originate from China.