Europe Sees 6 Billion Reasons for New Levy on Online Shoppers

Bargain-hunting consumers across the European Union will start feeling the pinch of higher online shopping costs next week when a new levy primarily targeting China comes into force, adding a layer of trade friction between the two economies.

Starting July 1, a €3 duty will apply on items less than €150 ($172), a move aimed at slowing the flood of low-priced merchandise from outside the EU sold by sites like Shein and Temu.

E-commerce imports into the bloc reached nearly 6 billion items last year, and China accounted for about 90% of merchandise under €150, goods like fast fashion, beauty ...