Low-Value Packages: An Illustration of China’s Export Reorientation Toward the EU
In response to the sharp increase in U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports, Beijing is redirecting part of its export flows toward new markets. For certain products, the European Union (EU) has emerged as a preferred destination.
By Charlotte Emlinger, Kevin Lefebvre, Vincent Vicard
PostBetween June and August 2025, 176 products—representing about 7% of China’s exports to the EU over this three-month period—fit this pattern of reorientation: declining shipments to the United States are accompanied by a marked increase toward Europe.
Among these, low-value packages stand out in particular. Benefiting from a simplified customs regime in the EU (unlike in the United States, where this provision was eliminated in April 2025), their export value from China surged by 80% year-on-year, while exports to the United States fell by half.
Among these, low-value packages stand out in particular. Benefiting from a simplified customs regime in the EU (unlike in the United States, where this provision was eliminated in April 2025), their export value from China surged by 80% year-on-year, while exports to the United States fell by half.
For further analysis, see Redirection du commerce chinois vers l’Europe : petits colis, grand détour.
< Back
