Parcels from abroad will become more expensive due to new taxes

Possible changes in the taxation of international parcels may affect Ukrainian consumers. According to draft law No. 15112, currently being considered by the Verkhovna Rada, from January 1, 2027, all purchases in foreign online stores may be subject to a value-added tax (VAT) of 20%, regardless of their value.

This innovation may significantly increase the cost of many foreign orders for Ukrainians.

Currently, preferential conditions apply: parcels with a total value of up to 150 euros can be imported into Ukraine without paying customs duties and VAT. This makes most individual purchases from foreign online stores financially profitable.

What changes does the new bill provide for?

If the new law is adopted, VAT will be charged on all parcels, regardless of their value. This means that even for goods worth a few euros, you will have to pay an additional 20%. This tax can be included in the order price during checkout, especially on popular platforms such as AliExpress or Temu, where many Ukrainians make purchases.

Will the benefits remain?

The partial preferential regime will remain, but it will only apply to private parcels between individuals, for example, gifts from relatives or friends. Such shipments worth up to 45 euros will not be subject to VAT if:

the parcel is sent free of charge;

the contents are intended exclusively for personal or family use;

the goods are not of a commercial nature.
When will you have to pay tax even for a parcel worth up to 45 euros?

However, there are exceptions. If the contents of the parcel include certain categories of goods, such as:

excisable goods;

perfumes, if their quantity exceeds the norm;

coffee over 500 grams;

tea over 100 grams,
then a tax of 20% may be charged on the entire cost of the parcel, even if it is less than 45 euros.

What will this mean?

The adoption of this law may significantly affect the finances of Ukrainians who are used to buying necessary goods abroad. Clothing, shoes, electronics and power banks may become significantly more expensive due to the new conditions. Also, the increase in prices will affect the availability of goods that are either difficult to find in Ukrainian stores or their cost here is unreasonably high.

Earlier, it was also reported about changes in Ukrposhta tariffs for parcel delivery, as well as fluctuations in electricity prices. In addition, Ukrainians are being deprived of benefits for utility services.