EU agrees to fine online platforms importing unsafe products

Core Points - The European Union has agreed to overhaul its customs system, targeting mainly Chinese e-commerce platforms for selling illegal or unsafe products, with potential fines for non-compliance [1][2] - The EU aims to coordinate the collection of duties and safety checks due to the increasing volume of low-value e-commerce parcels, projected to reach 5.8 billion by 2025 [1] Customs System Changes - Online platforms selling into the EU will be treated as importers, responsible for duties and product safety, with fines ranging from 1% to 6% of total sales into the EU for repeated violations [2] - The EU plans to eliminate the customs duty exemption for parcels valued under 150 euros ($173.85) and impose a 3 euro fee starting in July, with an additional handling fee to be determined by the European Commission from November 1 [3] EU Customs Authority - Lille has been selected as the location for the future EU Customs Authority (EUCA), which will oversee a new data hub for incoming goods, set to open for e-commerce consignments in 2028 and cover all imported goods by March 1, 2034 [4] Engagement with China - A nine-member EU delegation will visit China to address challenges in the digital and e-commerce sector and promote fair competition, meeting with Chinese legislators and major platforms like Shein, Alibaba, and Temu [5] Product Safety Concerns - A recent study by the European Commission revealed that 60% to 65% of imported cosmetics and personal protective equipment do not comply with EU safety regulations, highlighting systemic breaches of EU laws from non-EU online platforms [6]