Dublin: Online shoppers in Ireland buying goods from outside the European Union will face new customs charges from July 1, as the EU introduces revised rules for low-value imports. The changes are expected to affect millions of online purchases, including clothing, electronics, cosmetics and household items ordered from overseas.
Under the new system, parcels valued at €150 or less arriving from non-EU countries—including the UK, China and the United States—will be subject to additional customs charges alongside existing VAT requirements.
Low-Cost Imports to Become More Expensive
Previously, low-value goods entering the EU were generally exempt from customs duties, with consumers only required to pay VAT where applicable. However, under the new rules, an additional charge of €3 per item will apply and will also be included in the VAT calculation.
According to Revenue, the charge applies to individual products within a parcel rather than to the parcel itself.
For example, a package containing a pen, notebook and key ring would incur three separate charges, amounting to €9 plus VAT. However, identical items shipped together may be counted as a single product for customs purposes.
Returns Could Become More Complicated
The new system may also make returns more complex for consumers.
Some online retailers may collect customs charges at checkout. If these fees are not prepaid, postal operators or courier companies may require payment before delivery.
Revenue has clarified that customs charges generally will not be refunded if goods are returned, except in cases where items are defective. VAT refunds will depend on the policies of the supplier or retailer.
Consumers are therefore being advised to check not only where goods are sold from, but also the country from which they are shipped.
Move Aimed at Tackling Surge in Cheap Imports
The policy change forms part of wider European efforts to curb the rapid growth of low-value e-commerce imports from platforms such as Shein and Temu.
EU data shows that around 4.6 billion small parcels entered the European Union in 2024—equivalent to more than 145 packages per second—with approximately 91% originating from China.
Relief for European Retailers
European retailers have long argued that duty-free treatment for low-value imports creates unfair competition for businesses operating within the EU, which must comply with stricter regulations and standards.
EU policymakers have also raised concerns about product safety, environmental impacts, counterfeit goods and tax fraud linked to some imported items.
The European Commission has warned that some imported products fail to meet EU safety and environmental standards.
For Irish consumers, the era of ultra-cheap overseas shopping may be changing. While the new rules could increase costs for some purchases, supporters argue that they will create a fairer marketplace for businesses that comply with European regulations and consumer protection standards.
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