Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty has criticised the European Union’s new €3 charge on low-value imports, warning that it will add to cost of living pressures while “failing to target the real problem of cheap imports.”
Doherty warned that the charge will apply to eCommerce packages valued at €150 or less arriving from outside the EU, including from UK retailers that many Irish consumers use regularly.
However, Doherty said her biggest concern is how the charge is structured.
“This isn’t a €3 charge per parcel. It’s a €3 charge per item type within a parcel, and that’s where I believe Europe has got this wrong,” Doherty said.
“If someone orders a few inexpensive household items online, those charges can quickly add up. At a time when many families are already feeling the pressure of rising costs, we need to think very carefully before introducing new charges that ultimately fall on consumers.”
Doherty also warned the new system could create opportunities for scammers.
“I am concerned that fraudsters will exploit this change by sending fake texts or emails asking people to pay a €3 customs charge,” Doherty said.
“We have already seen criminals impersonate delivery companies and customs authorities. Consumers need clear information on when charges apply, how they are paid and how to spot a scam.”
“Let’s be clear. Europe does have a problem to solve. Billions of cheap products, many from China, are flooding the European market every year.”
“But I do not believe the answer is to charge consumers every time they buy an item online.”
“We need to tackle the source of the problem, not the people trying to stretch their wages a little further.”
“If large online platforms are flooding the market with cheap imports, then they should make a fair contribution towards customs enforcement and compliance costs.”
“Europe should focus on the billion-euro platforms profiting from this business model, not on families buying everyday items.”
“The objective is right. But Europe should be tough on unsafe products and unfair competition, not tougher on consumers.”