Ports

China-Europe Ecommerce Exports Plummet 65% as EU Fee Takes Toll

Chinese low-value and ecommerce exports to the European Union collapsed 65% year-on-year in August, according to Trade and Transport Group data. This extended a sharp contraction following July's 54% decline. The EU's €3-per-item fee has coincided with the downturn. Exports to the UK fell more moderately, down 13% in August following a 5% July drop. Independent tracking by Aevean confirmed the deterioration, recording August's steepest decline at 16% year-on-year, driven primarily by a 40% plunge in European shipments. However, alternative routes remain resilient. Exports to Asia Pacific, North and Latin America, the Middle East and South Asia remained flat or showed minimal declines. Africa posted strong growth at 71%, albeit from a smaller volume base. DSV's global airfreight chief noted the market's adaptability, suggesting ecommerce volumes could recover as sellers explore alternative channels.