June 30, 2025, 3:05 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The EU Commission is considering a flat fee of up to two euros on packages from non-EU countries to cover monitoring costs. E-commerce platforms such as Temu and Shein would be particularly affected by this fee.
In light of a rapidly increasing number of packages from non-EU countries, the European Commission is considering a flat fee of up to two euros on such orders, including those from Temu and Shein. According to a document from the Brussels authority obtained by the Financial Times, this fee is intended to cover, among other things, increased monitoring costs. The EU Commission reports that in 2024, around twelve million packages are arriving daily in the EU—significantly more than in the previous two years.
Relentless Package Growth from Temu and Shein
According to Anna Cavazzini, chair of the Internal Market Committee in the EU Parliament, the fee would particularly affect e-commerce giants like Temu and Shein. “The phenomenon of single packages with the lowest value is new and is growing relentlessly due to ultra-cheap marketplaces like Shein and Temu,” said the Green Party politician. The European system of customs and market surveillance was never designed for this.
Vodafone Launches Global Data Option–But a Cost Trap Looms
Major Change at DHL Affects All Users
Editor on New EU requirements for Apple: “This Goes Too Far!”
Temu and Shein – All About Low Prices
Temu is an online marketplace—a portal where numerous companies sell various goods. The Chinese company has been active in Germany since spring 2023 and repeatedly attracts attention with its low prices and high discounts. Products are often delivered directly from the manufacturer to customers.
Also interesting: EU discusses new tax regulation! Implications for online shoppers
The fashion company Shein, founded in China and now based in Singapore, is both a manufacturer, retailer, and marketplace. As a direct provider, it can quickly respond to fashion trends, according to trade experts. Since Shein ships its products worldwide and has no stores and few inventories, it can keep its prices extremely low.
(With material from dpa.)