Duty-free shopping for cheap purchases ends: New regulations in 2026

As of July 1, 2026, the duty-free allowance for smaller purchases from third countries, such as from platforms like Temu, Shein, and AliExpress, will no longer apply. This change particularly affects consumers who regularly order inexpensive products from abroad. The new regulation introduces a flat fee of 3 euros, which will be charged on all orders under a value of 150 euros.

The decision of the European Union aims to protect competition in the internal market and ensure compliance with customs and tax regulations. Until now, consumers from the EU could benefit from duty-free shopping, making the purchase of inexpensive goods from countries like China particularly attractive. With the new regulation, this advantage is now restricted.

Details on the new flat fee

The 3-euro flat fee will apply to all orders that do not exceed a value of 150 euros. This means that consumers who order clothing, electronics, or household goods through these platforms will have to expect additional costs in the future. The fee will be due directly during the purchasing process and is intended to simplify the handling of customs formalities.

The EU Commission has emphasized that the introduction of this fee is also intended to help reduce the import of counterfeit or unsafe products. By collecting the flat fee, better control over the flow of goods will be enabled, which ultimately should benefit consumer protection. The new regulations apply to all EU member states and are to be implemented uniformly.

Impact on consumers and retailers

For consumers, the new regulation means that they will have to calculate their purchases more carefully in the future. The additional costs could lead some bargain hunters to reconsider their orders or turn to local providers. Retailers who sell their goods through platforms like Temu or Shein will also need to adjust to the new conditions and adapt their pricing strategies.

Reactions to the new regulations are mixed. While some consumers support the need for customs controls, others fear that the additional costs will make shopping from abroad less attractive. This could represent a significant change, especially for young buyers who often rely on inexpensive fashion and electronics.

The EU has announced that it will closely monitor the impact of the new regulation and make adjustments if necessary. The goal is to ensure fair competition while protecting consumer interests. The introduction of the flat fee is part of a broader plan to reform customs law in the EU.

The new regulations will come into effect on July 1, 2026, and will affect all orders placed after this date. Consumers should therefore inform themselves about the changes in a timely manner and adjust their shopping habits accordingly.