Online shopping in Europe is booming, with platforms like Temu, Shein, and Alibaba attracting consumers through ultra-low prices. In Germany alone, hundreds of thousands of parcels arrive from Asia daily, at a time when local retailers face considerable pressure. Yet concerns are growing over product safety, environmental standards and fair competition.

The EU has now abolished duty-free exemptions for low-value parcels from China. Starting July 1, 2026, all packages face customs processing and duties.

 

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.