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The rapid growth of low-value e-commerce imports is placing unprecedented pressure on EU customs administrations and logistics operators. In a new paper, CLECAT comments on the operational impact of the removal of the EUR 150 customs duty de minimis threshold, planned for July 2026. While supporting the objective of strengthening and modernising the Customs Union, CLECAT underlines that implementation choices will have major consequences for freight forwarders, customs representatives and other logistics service providers.

CLECAT warns that shifting large volumes of low-value consignments from simplified H7 procedures towards standard H1 declarations risks flooding national customs systems, creating delays and undermining the very purpose of simplification. Significant investments in staff, IT systems and compliance capacity will be required across the sector.

Our paper calls for workable solutions: preserving simplified procedures for low-value consignments, ensuring realistic data requirements, conducting mandatory IT readiness assessments, and maintaining structured consultation with trade throughout the rollout. Measures should remain proportionate and targeted at high-risk actors, while safeguarding compliant operators.

CLECAT remains committed to supporting a fairer and more effective customs framework for e-commerce, but stresses that careful design, realistic timelines and coordinated implementation will be essential to avoid disruption to legitimate trade.