The Customs Department generated nearly €2 million in revenue during the first month of the new €3 duty on small parcels, following the introduction of the measure on 1 July.
The levy applies to imports into the European Union of low-value consignments worth up to €150 originating from third countries.
According to Customs Department spokesperson George Constantinou, revenue collected during July came from approximately 650,000 individual items contained in around 160,000 parcels.
Drop in parcel imports
Mr Constantinou said a reduction in small-parcel imports had been observed compared with previous months.
However, he noted that several factors may have contributed to the decline.
One possibility is that consumers accelerated purchases before the introduction of the duty in an effort to avoid the additional charge. He also pointed to the holiday season, noting that July traditionally sees lower ordering activity.
Mr Constantinou said it would become clearer over the coming months whether the levy has altered consumer behaviour.
He added that attention will also focus on how retailers and online platforms respond, including decisions on warehouse locations and product distribution routes.
According to the Customs spokesperson, a clearer picture of the duty's long-term impact is expected to emerge within the next three to four months.
No major operational issues
Asked whether the new measure had created significant administrative burdens, Mr Constantinou said implementation had proceeded smoothly.
While some adjustments were required during the first days of operation, particularly in relation to calculations and collection procedures within the accounting system, the process has since stabilised.
Limited public reaction
Mr Constantinou also said there had been no significant complaints from the public.
Initial enquiries mainly concerned whether charges would apply depending on when an order had been placed.
Following implementation, consumers appeared to understand that the levy had only a limited impact on the overall cost of most purchases, he said.
Mr Constantinou expressed the view that parcel volumes could eventually return to previous levels as consumers adjust to the new regime.
Source: CNA
