ETIRA backs the European Parliament’s call for tougher border controls to stop non-compliant imaging consumables from entering the EU market unchecked.
The European Toner and Inkjet Remanufacturers Association (ETIRA) has backed the European Parliament’s call for stricter border enforcement to tackle non-compliant e-commerce imports, stating that compliance must begin at the EU’s borders.
The association welcomes the Parliament’s Own Initiative Report on Product Safety and Regulatory Compliance in E-Commerce and Non-EU Imports, which highlights loopholes that allow online marketplaces to flood the market with low-cost, non-compliant imaging consumables. ETIRA argues that without urgent reform, these unchecked imports will continue to undermine compliance efforts, environmental regulations, and legitimate European businesses.
EU borders must be the first line of defence
ETIRA points to the massive increase in small parcel imports, many of which bypass customs checks and avoid WEEE, REACH, and RoHS compliance. In 2024 alone, 4.6 billion low-value parcels entered the EU under the €150 customs duty exemption, double the figure from 2023. The association argues that failure to intercept these products at customs allows non-compliant imaging consumables to reach consumers unchecked, placing unfair pressure on European remanufacturers who must adhere to strict environmental and safety regulations.
ETIRA supports key reforms
The association fully supports the European Parliament’s recommendations, which include abolishing the €150 customs duty exemption to prevent non-EU sellers from avoiding import taxes and regulatory checks. It also backs stronger customs enforcement, ensuring that small parcel shipments undergo compliance screening before entering the EU market. Additionally, ETIRA advocates for the expansion of AI and blockchain-based tracking to detect and block non-compliant imports at the point of entry. Finally, the association supports holding online marketplaces accountable, ensuring they take full responsibility for the compliance of products sold on their platforms.
Fair competition for European businesses
ETIRA argues that stronger border controls are essential to maintaining a fair market, preventing non-compliant imports from undercutting businesses that invest in sustainability, compliance, and take-back schemes. The association is urging EU policymakers to prioritise customs enforcement as the first and most critical step in protecting the market, consumers, and the environment.
Without urgent action, ETIRA warns that European remanufacturers will remain at a competitive disadvantage, while the flood of non-compliant imaging consumables continues to undermine EU sustainability goals.
