Several member states are proposing the introduction of handling fees on low value imports

7 January 2026

Several EU countries, including Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Romania, are proposing the introduction of a national handling fee on low‑value non‑EU imports valued up to €150.

In 2025, Belgium’s coalition government expressed support for a €2 national import levy to help fund enhanced fraud‑detection efforts, following growing concerns about rising VAT and customs fraud linked to the surge in small‑parcel imports. France, the Netherlands, and Romania are now also exploring similar measures, with discussions and draft proposals underway.

Italy has taken this a step further by introducing a €2 charge on low-value imports starting 1 January 2026. This fee applies on a per-shipment basis and is collected when the goods are cleared into the country.

This follows the confirmed introduction of an EU‑wide €3 customs duty on low‑value consignments, which will apply from 1 July 2026 to low‑value imports.