The EU Targets E-commerce Platforms for Unsafe Products
The European Union (EU) plans to hold e-commerce marketplaces accountable for dangerous or illegal products sold online, according to a Financial Times report.
Under proposed customs reforms, online platforms like Temu, Shein, and Amazon Marketplace will be required to submit data prior to goods entering the EU. This will allow customs officials to enhance package inspection and control.
Currently, individuals purchasing goods online within the EU are designated as importers for customs purposes. However, the proposed reform shifts this responsibility to the platforms. Online retailers will be tasked with collecting applicable duties and VAT, ensuring compliance with EU regulations.
The report indicates that customs data from national authorities will be consolidated and managed by a newly established EU Central Customs Authority (EUCA).
"The EUCA would screen goods based on this information, identifying potential risks even before they're loaded for transport or physically arrive in the EU," the Financial Times cited the draft proposal.
Amazon, Shein, and the EU have yet to respond to Reuters' request for comment outside of business hours, and Temu could not be reached for comment.