Parcels from Temu and AliExpress may increase in price by a third: is the NBU planning new rules?

The National Bank of Ukraine plans to introduce a new tax on international postal parcels, which could significantly increase the prices of goods from foreign online stores such as Temu, AliExpress, Amazon, and iHerb by up to 30%. This was reported by Doctor of Economics Andriy Dligach.

According to him, currently, less than 1% of all incoming parcels are taxed in Ukraine; in 2024, the state budget received only about 200 million hryvnias from these taxes. If tax breaks are abolished, the budget could receive an additional 15 billion hryvnias per year.

The economist notes that if the new tax is implemented, it could encourage many consumers to refrain from impulse purchases, choose Ukrainian brands, and reduce overall import volumes. He pointed out that in 2023, Ukrainians will receive about 80 million parcels, up from 75 million last year.

The proposed changes include introducing a 10% customs duty and a 20% VAT on imported goods, which will increase the cost of parcels by about 30%. Dligach noted that this will significantly affect buyers who order inexpensive goods from platforms such as AliExpress or Temu, and may force consumers to be more careful in their purchases.

At the same time, the expert believes it is advisable to maintain tax benefits for small purchases up to 40 euros, as is practiced in other countries. He also noted that the use of tax benefits by small businesses that import goods through the mail is unfair, since the benefits should be intended only for households.

Dligach emphasized that the abolition of benefits will benefit not only large chains but also legally operating small businesses. He also noted that Ukraine now needs to reduce imports to improve the trade balance while developing exports and fostering economic stability.

Regarding the timing of introducing the new rules, he indicated that the abolition of benefits for electric vehicles may occur in the near future. At the same time, changes to parcels and luxury items may not receive support in parliament in the near future.