EU to impose two-euro handling fee on non-EU packages from November 1

Starting November 1, the European Union will levy a permanent two-euro handling fee on each type of item in packages sent directly to consumers from outside the bloc. This measure aims to curb the influx of low-value imports, particularly from China via platforms like AliExpress and Temu, and compensate customs authorities for increased workload. The fee applies regardless of parcel value and is separate from the temporary three-euro duty on small parcels introduced in July. While the EU states consumers will not pay this fee directly, online marketplaces and sellers are responsible for it and may pass costs to buyers through price adjustments. Officials note that imports have fallen by approximately 64 percent since the July duty was implemented, though they caution it is too early to draw firm conclusions.