EU Tackles E-Commerce Risks in Imports: What Importers and Exporters Need to Know
The European Commission's new actions target the surge of unsafe and counterfeit goods entering the EU via online retailers.
In recent years, e-commerce has seen exponential growth, particularly in the importation of low-value goods. In 2024 alone, around 4.6 billion consignments—often worth less than €150—entered the EU market, a volume that has doubled compared to previous years. While e-commerce offers convenience and variety, it also presents significant risks related to product safety, fair competition, and environmental sustainability. The European Commission is taking proactive steps to address these concerns with its new initiative: the Comprehensive EU Toolbox for Safe and Sustainable E-Commerce.
In this blog, we’ll address key questions importers and exporters need to know about these proposed actions, their potential impact on your business, and how to navigate the changes.
What question we will cover:
What is the Commission proposing in terms of customs reform for e-commerce?
What measures will be taken to ensure the safety and compliance of imported goods?
How will consumer protection be reinforced under the new proposals?
What role do digital tools play in the new framework?
How will sustainability be addressed in this new framework?
What is the Commission proposing in terms of customs reform for e-commerce?
The Commission’s proposal includes several reforms aimed at ensuring that e-commerce operates in a fair and compliant manner. The most significant of these is the removal of the €150 duty exemption on low-value parcels. This change aims to create a level playing field for EU businesses, reducing the competitive advantage currently enjoyed by non-EU sellers who exploit this exemption.
Moreover, the proposal encourages improved data-sharing and more comprehensive risk assessments. This will enhance the ability of customs authorities to monitor shipments effectively and ensure compliance with EU regulations.
Key Takeaways for Importers/Exporters:
Expect to see increased customs duties on low-value imports.
Be prepared for more stringent compliance and data-sharing requirements.
Customs authorities will enhance their monitoring capabilities to ensure fair competition and compliance.
What measures will be taken to ensure the safety and compliance of imported goods?
A core focus of the EU’s actions is addressing the growing problem of unsafe and counterfeit products entering through e-commerce channels. The Commission plans to implement coordinated customs controls in conjunction with market surveillance authorities.
For the first time, a comprehensive product safety sweep will be conducted to remove non-compliant goods from the market. Customs will increasingly focus on high-risk goods, operators, and trade flows, using continuous risk analysis to guide decision-making. Non-compliant traders will face stricter penalties, which will further incentivize adherence to EU regulations.
Key Takeaways for Importers/Exporters:
Customs checks and market surveillance will intensify.
Expect more inspections, particularly on higher-risk goods and traders.
Penalties for non-compliance will be more severe, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust compliance processes.
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