EU Customs Reform 2026: Low-value Import Tax Exemption to be Eliminated
The EU will officially eliminate the €150 low-value import tax exemption on July 1, 2026, alongside the comprehensive implementation of the ICS2 customs declaration system, significantly increasing clearance costs and compliance challenges for cross-border sellers.
What are the key facts?
- 1Removal of €150 tax exemption on July 1
- 2Full application of ICS2 system
What happened?
The EU is advancing customs reform to modernize its clearance system. Key points include the elimination of low-value import tax exemptions on July 1 and the mandatory implementation of the ICS2 system across all modes of transport. The implementation of this policy is expected to result in higher clearance costs for cross-border sellers, making it essential for them to prepare in advance to cope with the increasing legal compliance burden. Ensuring the accuracy of all product declaration information will be key to business success.
What does this mean for cross-border sellers?
Sellers must reassess their pricing strategies and logistics costs for the European market, ensuring the accuracy of clearance documentation to avoid delays. Attention to the details of the ICS2 system implementation is necessary to adjust operational processes timely.