New EU Charge Comes into Force for Temu, Shein and AliExpress Orders
Online shoppers in Lanzarote and across the rest of Spain may notice changes when placing orders with popular shopping platforms such as Temu, Shein and AliExpress, as a new European Union customs charge comes into effect today.
The measure applies to low-value parcels arriving in the EU from outside the bloc and is part of a wider effort to modernise customs procedures, improve product safety and create fairer competition for European retailers.
What has changed?
From today, a new €3 customs charge is being introduced on imports valued at under €150 that are shipped into the European Union from outside its borders. While the charge is officially aimed at importers and online marketplaces, many experts expect at least some of the additional cost to be reflected in the prices paid by consumers.
Unlike a standard delivery fee, the charge is linked to customs processing and may be applied according to the different categories of products included within an order. This means orders containing a variety of item types could attract higher overall charges than a basket containing several identical products.
Why is the EU introducing the charge?
European authorities say the number of low-cost parcels arriving from overseas has increased dramatically over recent years, with billions of packages entering the EU annually. Officials argue that the previous customs system was no longer suitable for handling such volumes and gave overseas retailers an advantage over businesses operating within Europe.
The new rules are also intended to:
- Help fund customs processing.
- Improve checks on imported products.
- Reduce the number of unsafe or non-compliant goods entering the EU.
- Create a more level playing field for European retailers.
What does this mean for people in Lanzarote?
For residents, it could mean that bargain purchases from overseas websites become slightly more expensive over time if retailers decide to pass on the new costs.
For tourists staying in Lanzarote who order items to their holiday accommodation, the same EU rules will apply to eligible imports entering Spain.
Many online marketplaces are expected to display any additional import-related costs during the checkout process, making it clearer what customers will pay before completing their purchase.
Will prices increase?
That remains to be seen. Some retailers may choose to absorb part of the new charge to remain competitive, while others are expected to adjust prices or shipping costs.
The new customs fee is part of a wider overhaul of the EU’s customs system, with further reforms planned over the next few years.
