EU introduces €3 customs charge on small parcels to curb cheap Chinese imports
- The European Commission has said it hopes to prevent the “desertification” of Europe’s high streets, as it prepares to introduce a customs tax on small parcels in an attempt to curb cheap Chinese imports.
- Consumers have been able to buy up to €150 (£129) worth of goods, including fast fashion, cosmetics and toys, without any customs charges as part of a “de minimis” exemption, a tariff break meaning “too small to matter”.
- From Wednesday, small parcels under that value will be subject to the new €3 customs charge and officials are hoping the end of de minimis will slow the rapid rise in imports f
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- The European Commission has said it hopes to prevent the “desertification” of Europe’s high streets, as it prepares to introduce a customs tax on small parcels in an attempt to curb cheap Chinese imports.
- Consumers have been able to buy up to €150 (£129) worth of goods, including fast fashion, cosmetics and toys, without any customs charges as part of a “de minimis” exemption, a tariff break meaning “too small to matter”.
- From Wednesday, small parcels under that value will be subject to the new €3 customs charge and officials are hoping the end of de minimis will slow the rapid rise in imports f
Sources: Guardian