EU customs overhaul puts online platforms on the hook for imports

The Council of the European Union has approved the bloc’s biggest customs overhaul in decades, introducing major changes for online shopping, imported-product checks and the collection of customs duties. According to Cyprus’ Customs Department, the new rules will fundamentally change how online retailers and platforms based outside the EU are treated. Under the new system, non-EU e-commerce platforms will themselves be regarded as importers of goods sold to European consumers. They will therefore be responsible for customs formalities, paying the required duties and ensuring that products comply with EU standards. A new sanctions regime will also apply to e-commerce businesses that fail to meet their customs obligations. In serious cases of non-compliance, fines could reach up to 6% of the company’s annual import value in the previous year . Authorities will also be able to withdraw customs privileges and impose restrictions on access to online platforms. New fee for small parcels One of the most significant changes for consumers is the introduction of a new handling fee for small e-commerce parcels entering the EU. The fee must be introduced across the bloc by 1 November 2026 , with its level to be set by the European Commission. The measure is intended to cover the growing cost of checking the huge volume of small parcels entering the European market every day. The fee is separate from the earlier decision to abolish the customs-duty exemption for imports worth less than €150. New European Customs Authority The reform also provides for the creation of the European Customs Authority (EUCA) , which will coordinate the customs union. The new authority will be based in Lille, France , and is expected to begin operating in 2027. A central part of the new system will be a European customs data hub, which will collect and analyse import and export data in real time. This will allow member states to identify high-risk shipments more effectively and prioritise inspections. Faster procedures for trusted traders The legislation also creates a new category of “trust and check traders” , covering businesses considered particularly reliable. Companies that meet strict requirements and provide comprehensive information on the movement and compliance of their goods will benefit from simplified customs procedures. In some cases, they will even be able to release goods for free circulation in the EU without active customs intervention. The European Parliament is expected to approve the final text later in September. Use of the new customs data hub will become mandatory for e-commerce businesses from 1 July 2028 and for all traders from 1 March 2034 .