Eight European Countries Call for Action Against Chinese E-Commerce Platforms

European countries are uniting against ultra-fast fashion e-commerce platforms. Eight countries, led by France, have called for a mobilization from Brussels to address the challenges posed by third-country e-commerce platforms, particularly those based in China.

In a joint letter to the European Commission and member states, the eight countries Austria, Belgium, Spain, France, Greece, Italy, Hungary, and Poland urged the Commission to strengthen its collective response to what they perceive as “systemic risks” created by platforms like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. The letter, sent to Brussels, emphasizes the need for the European Commission to take decisive action against unfair competition stemming from third-country e-commerce platforms.

“Additional Sanctions Should Be Imposed on Temu and AliExpress”

The European Commission has sent information requests to Shein, which could lead to an official investigation. This request for an inquiry was made by French Minister of Commerce Serge Papin, the initiator of the letter. During the Competition Council meeting in Brussels, Minister Papin stated that this investigation should be supported by temporary measures to mitigate the uncontrolled systemic risks arising from platforms like Shein. He also called for additional sanctions against Temu and AliExpress, urging further action in the ongoing legal proceedings.

Facing the possibility of failure at the national level, France is now calling on the European Commission to act. Earlier this month, the French government attempted to suspend Shein through an administrative procedure but was unsuccessful. A court ruling on the case is expected to be announced on December 19. Addressing systemic risks posed by large platforms falls within the European Union’s jurisdiction.

Call for a “European Tax” on Low-Value E-Commerce Packages

The signatory countries are also calling for strict enforcement of existing laws, such as the Digital Services Act (DSA), to protect consumers and businesses from risks such as illegal product sales or unfair commercial practices. They argue that coordinated efforts are needed to strengthen controls by customs and consumer protection authorities. Furthermore, they urge the European Commission to play a more active role, review current regulations, and, if necessary, enhance online platforms’ obligations.

Finally, the signatories are calling for the introduction of a “European tax” on low-value packages, a measure particularly planned by France at the national level. It is worth noting that EU finance ministers approved the removal of customs duty exemptions for small import packages in mid-November, with the new measure expected to come into effect in the first quarter of 2026.

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