EU introduces 2-euro package fee: fair trade for everyone?

EU introduces 2-euro package fee: fair trade for everyone?

Wien, Österreich - The European Union plans to introduce a package fee of 2 euros to direct imports from third countries such as China. This announcement was made by EU trade commissioner Maros Šefčovič and is part of a comprehensive plan of measures that aims, among other things, to strengthen the European economy and to improve competitive conditions for local dealers. Commercial Association Managing Director Rainer wanted to be positive about this initiative, which is a decisive claim from Plan H and the Action Plan of HV and Greenpeace.

The background of the planned fee is the alarming increase of packages from the Far East, especially from providers such as Temu and Shein. In 2024, the number of packages with goods values ​​under 150 euros is expected to reach 4.6 billion, 91 percent of which come from China. Many of these programs are also incorrectly declared, which significantly increases competitive pressure on local retailers and has an estimated damage of 4.5 billion euros for Austrian trade.

planned measures to support the customs authorities

The introduction of the package fee should not only make the competition fairer, but also support the customs authorities in the control of cheap imports. By collecting a fee of 2 euros on direct sales and 0.50 euros for pre -stored items, part of the resources is to be used to better monitor the inputs. This measure will have broad approval in the commercial landscape. However, the digital association Bitkom calls for even greater controls and a lifting of the duty -free limit of currently 150 euros.

Maros Šefčovič emphasizes the need for suitable instruments for customs authorities in order to counter the challenges of the package flood and at the same time to ensure security standards in the EU. This objective also has international dimensions because the EU aims at environmental protection, consumer protection and international cooperation in its strategy.

reactions from the economy

The announced package fee is perceived as a step in the right direction by various business associations, including the commercial association Germany. Such regulations should ensure the same conditions for all market participants. Nevertheless, there are also critical voices, such as the Federal Consumer Center (VZBV), which consider the new regulations as a missed opportunity for the creation of a fair online market. The VZBV calls for stricter due diligence for online marketplaces and clear liability of the operators if consumer rights are disregarded.

The impending increase in complaints on the part of European retailers about unfair competition cannot be overlooked. Therefore, the debate about a fair trade strategy becomes increasingly intensive, especially with a view to the upcoming leading events, such as the Ecommerce Day, which will take place on June 12th in Vienna. Here the topic of fair commerce will be the focus and could give further impetus to reform the online trade.

The planned package fee can thus be understood as a necessary measure to combat the unequal competitive conditions in online trading and to relieve customs authorities and could mark a turn in the EU trade strategy.

Overall, the implementation of these measures will be promoted quickly to reduce the quota of fake or harmful goods and to ensure the safety of Turkish consumers.

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