Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan has called for the EU to give customs officials the support they need to tackle the overwhelming number of unsafe goods being shipped from online giants like Shein and Temu.
The Dublin MEP said:
“Customs officials across the EU are being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of packages from companies like Temu and Shein.
“The problem is that there are serious health and safety concerns about many of these goods.
“Tests carried out on products like cosmetics and children’s toys, sold by Temu, showed many did not comply with current rules, and were unsafe for people.
“I was part of the trade committee report on this issue, which made a number of key recommendations and amendments, including the need for these companies to conduct due diligence on the products they sell and to restrict imports from these companies if they continue to refuse to comply with our product safety laws.
“The amendments also urged that EU action should take account of the impact of these products on low-income families who may be forced into buying them due to the lack of affordable alternatives.
“However, it’s vital that the EU ensures customs officials have the resources that they need to prevent these goods from getting to a place where they may cause harm.
“No one should have to choose between affordability and safety. The EU must step up, give customs the tools they require, and finally hold these online giants to account.”
