Combating fraudulent practices by online platforms selling toys or clothing

6.11.2024

Question for written answer  E-002429/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Catherine Griset (PfE)

Some toys or clothing items imported into the EU market via online sales platforms do not comply with European regulations and can sometimes be dangerous for consumers or harmful to the environment.

Furthermore, these items, which are designed on the cheap in non-EU countries, benefit from an exemption from customs duties when imported individually in small packages with a value of less than EUR 150.

To protect our consumers and businesses from the risks created by the unfair practices of these online platforms, would the Commission consider:

• 1.removing the exemption from customs duties for parcels with a value below EUR 150?
• 2.imposing fines on these platforms amounting to up to 6 % of their annual worldwide turnover, as set out in the EU rules on digital services[1], or even banning platforms whose violations are serious and repeated from operating in Europe?
• 3.boosting checks on imports of goods, given that only a nominal number of transported consignments currently undergo border checks?

Submitted: 6.11.2024

• [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2022.277.01.0001.01.ENG&toc=OJ%3AL%3A2022%3A277%3ATOC