Particle.news
Download on the App Store

French Lawmakers Push Higher Fee on Extra‑EU Small Parcels as VAT Shortfall Is Probed

The Assembly will examine a €2‑per‑package levy that some deputies seek to raise to €10 to clamp down on fast‑fashion imports.

Overview

  • Deputies are set to debate a charge on parcels worth under €150 shipped by non‑EU sellers, with the base proposal at €2 and an amendment calling for €10.
  • Bercy has launched an inquiry led by the Inspection générale des finances and the Trésor to explain why 2025 VAT receipts fell far short of forecasts.
  • The government estimates a €2 fee could raise roughly €600 million, far less than the VAT gap lawmakers say may approach €10 billion.
  • EU finance ministers approved ending the low‑value consignment exemption, with implementation targeted for early 2026 and technical details due in December.
  • Officials point to surging shipments from platforms like Shein and Temu and suspected under‑valuation, while economists say small parcels likely do not account for the entire shortfall.