How will the new EU duty be applied to multiple items in one order?

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Multiple Items in a Single Order Will Incur Differentiated Levies Under New EU Duty

The European Union's new three-euro levy, effective July 1, will be applied per item type within an order, rather than per individual product. This means that an order containing multiple distinct categories of goods will result in a higher total levy compared to an order with multiple units of the same item.
Levy Based on Item Category

The new duty structure differentiates charges based on the type of goods included in a single parcel. For instance, an importer purchasing five T-shirts will be subject to a single three-euro levy, as all items fall under the same category. However, if the same importer orders one T-shirt and one watch in a single transaction, the levy will be six euros. This is because the T-shirt and the watch represent two different types of goods, each incurring the three-euro charge.
Rationale for the Levy

This measure aims to address the significant increase in low-value parcels entering the EU, which has overwhelmed customs authorities. The European Commission stated that the levy is intended to level the playing field for EU businesses, which must adhere to stringent regulations, while many imported goods have been found to be non-compliant with EU safety and quality standards. Targeted inspections in 2025 revealed that over 60 per cent of imported items lacked required safety documentation or contained banned substances.
Duration and Scope of the Levy

The temporary three-euro levy will be in effect until July 1, 2028. Following this period, the standard customs duties, which vary based on the specific type of good, will be reinstated. The EU has also indicated plans to introduce mandatory product reference details from November 1, 2026, to enhance traceability, and a separate handling fee, the amount of which is yet to be determined, is planned to commence in November 2026 to assist customs with increased operational costs.

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How will the new EU duty be applied to multiple items in one order?

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