France Plans €2 Fast-Fashion Import Tax as EU Delays Similar Measure
The French parliament is set to debate a new €2 tax on low-cost fashion imports this week, which could take effect next year. This move comes as a similar European Union-wide tax might be delayed until 2028. Lawmakers are also considering adding an extra environmental fee of €5 for cheap fashion products, which could rise to €10 by 2030.
The tax targets budget online retailers from China, such as Shein and Temu, which sell very cheap clothing in Europe. These products often undercut local manufacturers and raise concerns about waste because they are usually low quality and don’t last long.
According to the European Commission, in 2024, billions of low-value packages—mostly from China—entered the EU. The Commission reported that about 4.6 billion small shipments, worth less than €150 each, entered Europe last year. This equals roughly 12 million packages every day and has created many problems.
The EU has warned that these products can harm local production, often include counterfeit goods, and contribute to environmental and climate problems. European producers argue that the cheap imports make it hard to compete, while the environmental impact of short-lived products adds to pollution and waste.
France’s proposed €2 tax is part of an effort to act faster than the EU. French lawmakers want to introduce the measure now, while the EU-wide plan might not start until 2028. The additional €5 environmental fee would make importers pay for the environmental damage caused by their products. By 2030, this fee could rise to €10 per package.
The French government predicts that the €2 levy alone could generate around €500 million by the end of next year. Currently, goods valued under €150 imported into the EU are usually exempt from customs duties, though VAT still applies. This new levy would target these small parcels, making importers contribute their fair share.
The law introducing the €2 levy has already passed an initial vote in the French Senate and now awaits final approval by parliament. If approved, the first vote in the National Assembly is expected next Monday.
French Budget Minister Amélie de Montchalin emphasized that the tax is meant to prepare for changes in the EU Customs Union expected in 2028. She said the plan would help set up a system where all importers pay administrative fees for small packages entering Europe.
De Montchalin also stressed that the levy is not a tax on consumers. Instead, it is designed to ensure that companies benefiting from cheap shipping and low import duties take responsibility for their impact on local markets and the environment. She said the law would make those companies “pay their fair share” without penalizing ordinary shoppers.
In summary, France is moving ahead with a small tax on low-value fashion imports to protect local producers and address environmental concerns. While the EU’s broader plan is delayed, France hopes its measures will set an example and encourage faster action at the European level.
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