EU Moves to End Tax-Free Imports Under €150, Impacting Shein and Temu
The European Union is accelerating plans to eliminate tax exemptions for imported goods valued below €150, with implementation targeted for early 2026. Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic urged ministers to scrap the 'de minimis' rule during Brussels meetings, proposing a simplified customs fee as replacement.
Chinese e-commerce platforms like Shein, Temu and AliExpress currently leverage this loophole to ship directly from factories to consumers. European retailers have long criticized the practice as unfair competition. 'This levels the playing field for EU businesses,' said Danish Economy Minister Stephanie Lose, noting systemic exploitation of customs loopholes.
The MOVE comes as Brussels fast-tracks broader customs reforms originally slated for 2028. Market analysts suggest the change could disrupt the ultra-fast-fashion business model that relies on tax-free micro-shipments.
