Rome, July 22 Brussels Morning Newspaper — Italy customs duty on low-value imports is set to increase after the government confirmed that its national levy on small parcels will be added to the European Union’s new customs charge. The announcement clarifies that the Italian fee will apply alongside the EU-wide levy, raising the overall cost of eligible parcels entering the country from outside the bloc.
Italy Customs Duty to Apply With EU Parcel Charge
Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said Italy’s €2 national parcel levy will be charged in addition to the EU’s €3 customs duty for parcels valued below €150. The measure forms part of broader European efforts to modernise customs procedures and strengthen oversight of rapidly growing cross-border e-commerce.
The combined charges are expected to apply mainly to products ordered through international online marketplaces that ship directly to consumers in Italy.
New Rules Aim to Support Fair Competition
Italian and EU officials say the updated customs system is designed to improve border enforcement, reduce customs fraud and create fairer competition for European retailers. Authorities have also raised concerns about the increasing number of low-value imports entering the EU under simplified customs procedures.
Retail groups have welcomed the reforms, arguing they will help level the playing field for businesses operating within Europe. However, some online retailers expect higher import costs to affect demand for inexpensive overseas products.
Businesses Prepare for Implementation
Logistics providers, importers and online marketplaces are now preparing for the updated customs rules. Companies are expected to revise pricing, customs declarations and shipping processes before the combined levies take effect.
The European Union continues to work on wider customs reforms that will eventually replace the temporary arrangements with a permanent digital customs system.
Italy has confirmed that its national parcel levy will be added to the EU customs charge on low-value imports, increasing the total cost of eligible parcels entering the country. The policy aims to strengthen customs enforcement, improve product oversight and support fair competition for European retailers. Businesses across the e-commerce and logistics sectors are preparing for the new requirements as customs reforms continue across the European Union.
