Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000509/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Bruno Gonçalves (S&D), Dario Nardella (S&D), Sandro Gozi (Renew)
EU-based industries are increasingly struggling to compete with non-EU corporations that, particularly through e-commerce channels, manage to circumvent taxation and import duties at the EU’s external borders. This situation creates a distortion of competition, putting EU-based businesses at a disadvantage while allowing non-EU companies to benefit from what may be considered regulatory loopholes. The textile sector, for instance, has been severely affected by low-cost imports, which cannot be guaranteed to comply with customs policy or EU standards on environmental protection and consumer health – such as restrictions on hazardous chemicals in clothing.
If a level playing field is not ensured, EU-based manufacturers risk being further undermined, contributing to an overall loss in competitiveness. Moreover, the lack of proper enforcement of EU regulations on imported goods endangers consumers, who may be exposed to unsafe or non-compliant products.
In the light of these challenges, what concrete measures does the Commission intend to propose in order to:
- 1.Enforce the necessary customs controls and ensure fair taxation of e-commerce?
- 2.Protect EU-based industries from unfair practices and consumers from potentially harmful products?
- 3.Mobilise the Competitiveness Compass to support EU-based industries, in particular the textile sector?
Submitted: 5.2.2025