Working group on solutions to problems related to low-priced imports

Goals and results

The task of the working group is to identify all the national and EU-level solutions that can be used to address the problems caused by low-priced imports. In addition to surveying the means, a proposal will be made on the primary follow-up measures. The working group will draw up a written report on the solutions it has identified.

Starting points

Consumers' orders via e-commerce directly from manufacturers in third countries, mainly China, have grown strongly in recent years. The business model overrides many intermediaries in traditional trade, which allows prices to be very low and the range of products to be wide.

E-commerce products and operating models often involve problems such as the risk of harm to consumer health and safety caused by non-compliant products, the risk of irreversible environmental damage and harmful carbon footprint, and the negative impact on the level of consumer protection and the competitiveness of law-abiding companies. In addition, the phenomenon places an unsustainable burden on the authorities.