Brussels: On Wednesday, the European Parliament adopted proposals aimed at managing the increasing influx of substandard and potentially dangerous goods entering the EU from non-EU web shops. The report was passed with 619 votes in favor, 26 against, and 46 abstentions, highlighting strategies to alleviate pressure on customs and market surveillance authorities responsible for checking the 12 million small e-commerce packages arriving daily.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Parliament’s report suggests warehousing as a potential solution, urging non-EU traders to establish warehouses within the EU for processing client deliveries. This approach would facilitate easier checks on bulk shipments of similar goods compared to the current system of inspecting individual packages from non-EU countries.
The report also recommends removing the existing customs duty exemption for goods valued under £150 as part of the broader Customs Code reform. This exemption has been exploited, with approximately 65% of parcels entering the EU being deliberately undervalued.
Moreover, the Parliament cautiously supports the European Commission’s proposal for a £2 handling fee on individual e-commerce packages from outside the EU. MEPs emphasize the need for the Commission to ensure this fee is proportionate, compliant with WTO regulations, and not passed on to EU consumers.
The report further advocates for the use of digitalization, including AI tools and blockchain technology, to enhance customs efficiency. MEPs are calling for increased funding for customs authorities to adopt these technologies and for stricter enforcement of existing rules to ensure platform compliance.
Additionally, MEPs propose restricting high-risk vendors from participating in critical infrastructure and border security systems, particularly in the procurement of security and cargo scanning equipment at airports and ports.
Some of the proposals will be discussed in ongoing negotiations between Parliament and the Council as part of a major reform of the Union’s Customs Code.
Lead MEP Salvatore De Meo commented on the vote, emphasizing the hidden risks associated with online purchases from non-EU operators and the need for fair competition and enhanced customs controls to ensure a safer and more transparent digital market.
E-commerce offers convenience but poses challenges, as many items entering the EU do not meet safety standards. This situation affects EU businesses and consumers while increasing the burden on customs and market surveillance authorities tasked with processing a significant volume of packages daily.