The European Union has formally approved the removal of the long-standing €150 customs duty exemption for e-commerce imports, with implementation scheduled for 2026.
This development marks one of the first major outcomes of the EU Customs Reform announced in 2023 and signals a significant shift in how low-value goods entering the EU will be treated.
The reform aims to address the rapid rise in direct-to-consumer e-commerce shipments and to create a more level playing field between traditional retailers and overseas sellers. With Member States pushing for earlier action, the collection of customs duty on all e-commerce imports will begin well before the rollout of the new EU Customs Agency and central EU Data Hub in 2028.
Key Changes Announced
End of the €150 duty exemption: All e-commerce goods imported into the EU will be subject to customs duty, regardless of value.
Interim simplified duty calculation: A temporary simplified method for duty assessment will operate until the EU Data Hub becomes fully functional in mid-2028.
New handling fee expected: The EU has indicated that a handling fee for e-commerce imports is likely to be introduced from late 2026.
Enhanced data and transparency requirements: Importers, carriers, and marketplaces will face stricter data obligations to improve risk management and customs oversight.
These changes will have wide-ranging implications for retailers, marketplaces, logistics providers, consolidators, carriers, and postal operators moving goods into the EU.
How UKP Worldwide Supports Your Business
At UKP Worldwide, we are closely monitoring the legislative process and preparing our customers for the transition.
As specialists in cross-border e-commerce, customs clearance, returns, duty reclaim, and final-mile delivery, we work proactively to help businesses understand and adapt to evolving regulatory requirements.
We will continue to share updates as further details emerge and support our clients in reviewing their logistics, customs, and compliance strategies to maintain efficiency and competitiveness in the changing European market.
If your business imports e-commerce goods into the EU and you need guidance on how these reforms may affect your operations, our team is ready to help.
