Parcels worth up to €150 sent from third countries to the European Union will carry a total charge of €5 per item, according to Customs Department spokesman Giorgos Konstantinou. The amount is made up of two separate charges, which serve different purposes.
How the charge is made up
Speaking on Politis 107.6 & 97.6 radio, on the programme “Defteri Matia sta Gegonota” with Andri Daniel, Mr Konstantinou set out the two components:
- €3 temporary duty, in force since 1 July, applying to parcels worth from €0 to €150
- €2 EU handling fee, a new charge forming part of the EU’s wider customs reform
A fee, not a tax
Mr Konstantinou clarified that the new €2 charge is neither a tax nor a duty. He described it as a fee to cover the increased cost of customs checks.
He explained that the fee is imposed on the platforms that channel goods through online marketplaces from third countries into the European Union, not directly on consumers. It forms part of the EU’s broader customs reform and will apply in all member states.
Why the €3 duty was introduced
Mr Konstantinou said the temporary €3 duty applies to parcels that were previously exempt from import duties.
According to Mr Konstantinou, the measure aims to tackle unfair competition between European businesses and companies based in China.
European businesses, mostly small and medium-sized enterprises, pay duties when importing goods from third countries, as their imports exceed €150. By contrast, companies selling directly from China to consumers benefited from the exemption for small parcels.
He said the temporary duty seeks to correct this distortion and ensure fairer conditions of competition.
Checks using artificial intelligence
Referring to the €2 fee, the Customs Department spokesman said additional investment is needed in technology, equipment and staff.
Specifically, he explained that artificial intelligence systems are required for risk analysis and the selection of parcels for inspection. Personnel are also needed to carry out X-ray and physical checks.
The aim is to ensure that imported products meet European safety standards and are not prohibited or dangerous goods, which could cause serious health problems for consumers.
Christmas shopping as a test
Mr Konstantinou said the pre-Christmas shopping period will be an important test for online platforms and customs administrations.
He noted that in Cyprus, mass recording of these imports began in October last year. Before that, the relevant customs declarations were submitted in other member states because of limitations in the Cypriot electronic system.
Comparisons with the same period last year will therefore show whether the new charges are affecting consumer habits, and whether people are turning to shops based in the European Union.
Concluding, Mr Konstantinou acknowledged the difficult economic situation and people’s efforts to save money through cheaper purchases. He stressed, however, that the safety and protection of society must come before financial gain. He also pointed to governments’ responsibility to shape policies that distribute income more fairly.
