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These actions are part of the Communication on E-Commerce, ‘A Comprehensive EU Toolbox for Safe and Sustainable E-commerce’, which the Commission has proposed on 5 February 2025. The Commission encourages actions, among others, in the areas of customs and trade, such as launching customs controls, consumer protection and the Digital Services and Digital Markets Acts.
Last year, around 4.6 billion low-value consignments, i.e. goods with a value not exceeding €150, entered the EU market equalling to 12 million parcels per day. This is twice as many as in 2023 and three times as many as in 2022, and many of these goods have found to be non-compliant with European legislation. This exponential growth is raising numerous concerns. Mainly, there are more and more harmful products entering the EU. More so, European sellers, who respect our high product standards, are at risk of being harmed by unfair practices and the sale of counterfeit goods through online marketplaces. Finally, the large number of packages being shipped and transported has a negative environmental and climate footprint.
Further details can be found in the press release, Q&A and factsheet.
You can also download the full communication and read more about e-Commerce rules in the EU.
The rise in e-commerce imports to the EU market has brought with it many challenges. The EU is ready to address these challenges, coming together as Team Europe to make sure citizens and businesses can continue to enjoy the many benefits of online shopping, while minimising the risks of dangerous products that threaten the health and safety of consumers. We want to see a competitive e-commerce sector that keeps consumers safe, offers convenient products, and is respectful of the environment.
Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy