The Commission is taking action to tackle risks from low-value imports via non-EU online retailers.
These actions are part of the Communication on E-Commerce, A Comprehensive EU Toolbox for Safe and Sustainable E-commerce, which the Commission is proposing today. The Commission encourages actions in customs, consumer protection, and the Digital Services and Markets Acts.
Last year, around 4.6 billion low-value consignments entered the EU market, equating to 12 million parcels per day. This is double the amount in 2023. Many of these goods do not comply with European legislation, raising concerns about harmful products and unfair competition.
Consumers in Europe should enjoy safe and affordable online shopping, while European businesses should benefit from fair competition.
In the Communication, the Commission outlines all available EU tools and proposes new joint actions to address concerns about unsafe and counterfeit products:
- Customs reform: urging the swift adoption of the proposed Customs Union Reform Package.
- Targeted measures for imported goods: coordinated controls between customs and market surveillance authorities.
- Consumer protection on online marketplaces: enforcement priority under the Digital Services Act.
- Using digital tools: to facilitate e-commerce landscape supervision.
- Environmental protection: adoption of the first action plan on the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.
- Empowering consumers and traders through awareness campaigns.
- International cooperation and trade: training on EU product safety rules.
The Commission calls on Member States to work together as Team Europe for effective actions.
Next Steps
The Commission calls for cooperation with Member States to implement the proposed measures. Within a year, the effect of the actions will be assessed and a report will be published.
Background
E-commerce provides benefits but also challenges such as product safety and unfair competition.