Since this month, it has become more expensive for consumers to shop online from Chinese or British webshops. All packages from non-European webshops have to pay 21 per cent VAT. This also applies to small packages under 22 euros.
The new import rules apply to all products bought outside the EU. On a €20 order from AliExpress, consumers will now pay €4 in VAT. A reduced rate of 9 per cent applies to some items, including books. The European Union is aiming for a more level playing field between European and non-European webshops with the VAT on small orders.
The new rules also apply to parcels ordered before 1 July but arriving in the Netherlands after 1 July. The VAT is separate from any clearance fees charged by parcel services for clearing parcels with Customs.
