France suspends 2-euro charge on low-value packages as EU fee kicks in

Tuesday 30 June 2026 - 08:34

By: Sahili Aya

France suspends 2-euro charge on low-value packages as EU fee kicks in

France is temporarily withdrawing its national fee on low-value parcels imported from outside the European Union as Brussels prepares to introduce a harmonized charging system later this year. The move reflects a broader effort to streamline customs oversight while reshaping the regulatory environment for cross-border e-commerce.

Beginning July 1, France will suspend the €2 charge previously applied to low-value shipments entering the country from non-EU markets. The decision comes as the European Union advances a common framework that will introduce an additional administrative fee on these imports, creating a new cost structure across the bloc.

According to French authorities, the temporary suspension is intended to ease the transition toward the European system while giving customs and regulatory agencies time to strengthen monitoring of imported goods. Officials say the measure will improve oversight of products entering the French market before the EU-wide rules become fully operational.

From November, the overall charge applied to eligible parcels is expected to rise to €5, combining France's revised approach with the new administrative fee introduced at the European level. The policy is part of wider efforts to address the rapid growth of low-cost online imports and to ensure that customs procedures remain effective despite soaring parcel volumes.

The announcement coincides with renewed legislative action targeting the fast-fashion sector. France's Senate has approved a revised version of legislation designed to regulate ultra-low-cost online retailers more effectively after lengthy discussions between both chambers of Parliament. Lawmakers have sought to align the proposal with European Union legislation while responding to growing concerns over competition, environmental sustainability and consumer protection.

The regulatory focus reflects increasing scrutiny of international e-commerce platforms such as Shein, Temu and AliExpress, whose business models have fueled a surge in direct-to-consumer shipments into Europe. Policymakers argue that updated rules are necessary to create fairer competition for European retailers while improving product compliance and customs enforcement.

As online shopping continues to reshape retail across Europe, businesses involved in logistics, cross-border trade and digital commerce will be closely watching how the new fee structure affects purchasing behavior, import volumes and supply chain operations. The coming months are expected to provide an early indication of whether the harmonized European approach can balance consumer demand with stronger market oversight.