Canada Post has announced the suspension of its services to several European Union countries due to new customs regulations for low-value shipments. The postal service stated that it will not be accepting parcels destined for twelve countries until further notice, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, and others.
Shipments to other EU countries where the Delivered Duties Unpaid agreement is feasible, such as Poland and Sweden, will still be accepted. Canada Post also mentioned that they are working on implementing compliant solutions in the affected markets.
The European Union introduced a three-euro customs duty on parcels valued at 150 euros or less from outside the bloc, effective as of Wednesday. The EU explained that the previous duty-free rule for low-value packages no longer aligns with the current landscape, as many parcels are undervalued or falsely declared to avoid customs duties.
In 2025, the EU received 5.9 billion low-value packages, accounting for 97% of all imported items. The EU stated that the new measure aims to promote fair competition for EU businesses, protect consumers, combat customs fraud, and address environmental concerns related to mass shipping.
The EU clarified that the new duty is temporary, and from July 1, 2028, imports will be taxed based on the product’s value, origin, and tariff classification. Similarly, the U.S. eliminated its long-standing de minimis exemption last August, which allowed duty-free packages under $800 into the country, citing concerns about illegal drugs entering undetected.
Canada also has its own low-value package exemption for customs duties from Mexico and the U.S. valued at $150 or lower.