European Union Introduces Mandatory Product Identifiers and Customs Handling Fee for All B2C E-commerce Imports

Effective November 1, 2026, the European Union has made product identifiers mandatory for all business-to-consumer (B2C) distance sales imported into the EU. This new requirement, covering all 27 member states, aims to enhance product traceability, strengthen customs enforcement, and detect unsafe or non-compliant imports. Additionally, the EU is expected to introduce a Customs Handling Fee of approximately €2 per item line on all B2C distance sales, regardless of shipment value.