New Tax on Small Parcels from Outside EU Starts March 1, 2026

Starting March 1, 2026, a new tax of 2 euros per item will be applied to parcels valued under 150 euros imported from outside the European Union, affecting online purchases from platforms like Shein, Temu, and AliExpress. This measure, introduced by the 2026 finance law adopted in January, is intended to limit cheap imports and encourage local commerce.

Key points

• The tax is 2 euros per article, meaning a 50-euro parcel with 10 items incurs a 20-euro tax.
• The seller or platform is responsible for paying the tax along with VAT, but the cost is expected to be passed on to the consumer.
• This national measure will remain in effect until a similar European system is implemented, no later than December 31, 2026.
• Other changes starting March 1 include increases in gas reference prices and hospital/emergency service fees.

Why it matters

This new tax directly impacts the final price of low-value goods purchased from major international e-commerce sites, potentially altering consumer purchasing habits.