Canada Post has announced the suspension of postal services to select European Union countries due to new customs regulations for low-value shipments. A notice posted on their website earlier this week stated that parcels bound for twelve countries, including Austria, Belgium, and France, will not be accepted until further notice.
Shipments to other EU destinations, such as Poland and Sweden, will continue to be accepted where the Delivered Duties Unpaid agreement is feasible. Canada Post has also pledged to find compliant solutions for the affected markets.
As of Wednesday, the European Union has implemented a three-euro customs duty on parcels valued at 150 euros or less imported from outside the bloc. Previously, these low-value packages were exempt from duties, but the EU deemed the rule outdated for the current high volume of online purchases.
The EU stated that the new measure aims to level the playing field for businesses within the EU, combat customs fraud, and address environmental concerns related to mass shipping. The temporary duty will be based on the product’s value, origin, and tariff classification, effective from July 1, 2028.
In a similar move, the United States eliminated its long-standing de minimis exemption last August, which allowed packages valued under $800 to enter the country without additional fees. This change was made to enhance customs inspections and prevent illegal substances from entering the U.S. undetected.
Canada maintains its own low-value package exemption for shipments from Mexico and the U.S. valued at $150 or lower. The adjustments in customs regulations by both the EU and the U.S. aim to promote fair competition, consumer protection, and customs enforcement.
