Starting July 1, 2026, Czech residents will face an additional customs duty of €3 (around 73 CZK) on every parcel ordered from Asian online platforms, including Temu, Shein, AliExpress, and Trendyol.

The European Union says the measure is designed to support European sellers and ensure imported goods meet ecological and safety standards that many Asian products currently violate.

Brussels has long sought to curb the flow of ultra-cheap imports from Asia, especially ultra-fast fashion containing harmful chemicals. Previous measures, including the introduction of VAT on all parcels, did not reduce demand. The EU has now decided to remove all customs benefits for low-cost orders.

How it worked before

Until July 2021, most goods from China were exempt from VAT if valued under €22, while gifts between private individuals up to €45 were also exempt. Exceptions applied only to goods intended for commercial resale.

Since July 2021, 21% VAT applies to all imported goods, regardless of price. In most cases, this tax is included in the purchase price on the seller’s website. However, certain shipments require an electronic customs declaration via the Czech customs portal, cPortál. This applies when a specific delivery service is chosen, the parcel lacks an IOSS number, or the Czech Republic is the first EU country where the shipment arrives from Asia.

Current customs rules

Currently, customs duties apply only to parcels over €150 (roughly 3,630 CZK), with exceptions for alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and certain other goods. Individuals and businesses buying for resale pay duties regardless of order value. Most Czech buyers order items well below this threshold, avoiding extra fees.

What will change in 2026

The EU will eliminate the duty-free limit for parcels from non-EU countries. A flat €3 fee will apply to all shipments from sellers using the IOSS system or the special remote trade VAT mode. Companies registered in IOSS or the EU’s special VAT regime can submit a simplified H7 customs declaration, which will trigger the €3 charge per item.

The final legislative text is not yet approved, and some technical details remain unclear. Buyers will likely pay the duty directly on the retailer’s site, which will forward the funds to customs authorities. Payment could also occur via postal operators or transport companies.

Importers will no longer be able to avoid duties and VAT by shipping goods in bulk to EU warehouses. The responsibility for fees will shift to the seller, not the final customer.

The reform was originally scheduled for July 2028. It is possible that the EU may revise these rules again as part of a broader Customs Code reform.

Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more