I have just concluded a good, constructive discussion with EU Finance Ministers on the Customs Reform – and, more specifically, on the new rules for e-commerce imports as a crucial part of this reform.
As you know, our overall aim is to strengthen and modernise our Customs Union, making it fit for todays world and its challenges.
Today, we discussed specifically the removal of the duty exemption for low-value consignments.
This is a defining moment.
Reaching a political agreement on abolishing the current 150-euro-customs de minimis threshold sends a strong signal that Europe is serious about fair competition and about defending the interests of its businesses.
I welcome the support expressed by the Ministers.
European business, particularly retailers, have repeatedly stressed the need to remove this distortion of competition without delay. This is not a technical issue – it is a question of Europes capacity to defend its economic interests.
The same sense of urgency was echoed by the Leaders at the recent European Council.
Therefore, we are determined to deliver even faster – as soon as possible next year, instead of 2028.
The Commission and the Council will continue to work closely with Member States on a pragmatic, temporary solution that can be implemented as early as possible. Technical challenges should not delay our action.
Europe must be able to protect its borders effectively and uphold fair competition. That is why the reform of our Customs Union remains one of my top priorities.
