EU abolishes €150 parcel exemption from 2026: what it means for Cyprus and online shoppers

From early 2026, all parcels from third countries to the EU will be subject to duties regardless of their value. The decision was made by ECOFIN as part of customs regulation reforms.

The removal of the threshold is linked to widespread undervaluation of small shipments — according to the European Commission, around 65% of such parcels are declared inaccurately. In 2024, 91% of shipments under €150 came from China. The EU also cites environmental consequences of the growth in small deliveries.

In Cyprus, the measure will affect about 60% of online purchases. Each parcel will incur a duty and a separate handling fee (approximately €2). For orders from Shein/Temu, this will add €2–5 to the price.

ECOFIN postponed the exemption removal to 2026, accelerating the reform. From 2028, a stricter system with an electronic platform for calculating purchases from foreign e-shops will be implemented.

The changes will affect Temu, Shein, Bangood, Trendyol, and other services that operated under the de minimis limit. For European e-shops, the competition conditions will become fairer.

The EU expects that stronger control will reduce inaccurate declarations and budget losses, as well as lower the environmental impact of numerous small shipments.