New EU fee on small parcels could make online shopping more expensive in Croatia

ZAGREB, 7 September 2026 – People in Croatia who regularly order inexpensive products from online marketplaces outside the European Union could soon face an additional cost.

The European Union is preparing to introduce a new handling fee on small parcels imported into the bloc, with the measure expected to begin on 1 November 2026, subject to final formal approval.

The additional charge would apply to products purchased online and shipped into the EU from third countries. The European Commission is expected to determine the level of the fee, while national authorities would collect it.

The move comes as European authorities attempt to address the enormous volume of low-value parcels entering the bloc, particularly from China.

According to figures reported by Dnevnik.hr, EU customs authorities processed around six billion parcels ordered through online shops in 2025, with more than 90% originating from China.

The new measure would be the second significant charge introduced for small parcels this year.

Since July, goods from third countries have already been subject to a €3 customs duty for each category of goods within a shipment under the new arrangements.

The EU’s latest proposed charge is intended to help cover the growing administrative costs associated with handling the huge number of small consignments, including customs inspections and import monitoring.

The change could have a particular impact on consumers who frequently purchase low-cost clothing, household products, electronics accessories and other goods through international online marketplaces.

Businesses selling directly into the European market are also expected to face changes as the EU seeks to encourage greater compliance with European standards and reduce the flow of very cheap goods.

Some Chinese retailers have already begun adapting to the new rules by increasingly shipping goods from warehouses located inside Europe.

The new handling fee still requires formal approval by the European Parliament before it can take effect.

For Croatian consumers, the change is another development to watch as online shopping from non-EU marketplaces becomes increasingly integrated into everyday retail.