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EU Overhauls Customs System to Tackle E-Commerce Challenges

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The European Union (EU) will overhaul its customs system to address e-commerce challenges, targeting Chinese platforms.
A nine-member delegation will visit Beijing and Shanghai to discuss digital regulation and product safety.
The new system will hold online platforms accountable as importers, with fines for non-compliance.
A study found that 60–65% of imported cosmetics and personal protective equipment do not meet EU safety standards.
The EU plans to eliminate the duty exemption on low-value parcels, introduce a €3 fee starting in July, and establish a new EU Customs Authority in Lille by 2028.

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Story summary

The European Union (EU) will overhaul its customs system to address e-commerce challenges, targeting Chinese platforms.
A nine-member delegation will visit Beijing and Shanghai to discuss digital regulation and product safety.
The new system will hold online platforms accountable as importers, with fines for non-compliance.
A study found that 60–65% of imported cosmetics and personal protective equipment do not meet EU safety standards.
The EU plans to eliminate the duty exemption on low-value parcels, introduce a €3 fee starting in July, and establish a new EU Customs Authority in Lille by 2028.