The €3.61 Fee Killing AliExpress Purchases

The €3.61 tariff that has emptied AliExpress carts

A small order of trinkets that used to cost €10 now amounts to €22. The difference isn't the product; it's the €3.61 per-category tariff plus VAT on that fee. The measure, presented as protection for European industry, has achieved exactly the opposite: causing consumers to stop buying and revenue, according to the Laffer curve, to plummet.

The new tax eating up 80% of the order

Since the EU imposed customs duties on low-value purchases, each TARIC category carries a fixed tariff of €3.61. And that's not the end of it: VAT is calculated on the tariff, making the real cost €3.63. For a €12.80 order, taxes amount to €7. For one costing €22, the total skyrockets to €40. The math is simple: buying trinkets for €2-3 no longer pays off because the tariff exceeds the product's price.

A regular buyer reports that they used to order three items to reach €10 and avoid shipping costs, but now they face €12 in taxes. Another reports that buying two items of electronics and computer hardware adds an extra €6. The conclusion is unanimous: the 'all-in-3 euros' era is dead.

The revenue paradox: the Laffer curve in action

The tariffs are justified as protection for European industry. But when that industry doesn't exist, what are they protecting? Nothing. They are simply a revenue-raising measure. And this is where the Laffer curve comes into play: if the tax is so high that people stop buying, revenue falls. The person who used to buy three cheap items no longer does. Revenue collapse.

Furthermore, some argue that the measure benefits China in the long run. By eliminating small package retail, Chinese companies will sell bulk lots to European intermediaries, who will handle distribution. The Chinese factory continues producing, but the consumer pays more. Meanwhile, platforms are already moving warehouses to Spain and offering tax-free days to regain customers.

Safety as a pretext: the false CE mark

There is one argument in favor of the fee: safety. Many AliExpress products do not meet European CE standards. The 'China Export' logo is confused with the CE mark, and products like an LED bathroom appliqué do not pass mandatory testing. The anecdote of a kitchen thermometer recalled for 'safety' due to its lead solder, yet still functioning, illustrates the absurdity. But if safety is the concern, why aren't the same standards applied to Segarro fruits and vegetables entering without checks?

So what now?

Consumers are seeking alternatives: Amazon, local shops, or simply not buying. The package couriers that once flocked to neighborhoods have disappeared. The question remains: will this protect European industry, or simply impoverish the consumer without anyone manufacturing here? Meanwhile, AliExpress carts are emptying.