In 2025, the EU registered 4,671 reports of dangerous products entering the market, with over 2,000 originating from China, prompting new regulations and investigations.
Increase in Dangerous Goods from China
In 2025, the EU’s Safety Gate rapid alert system registered 4,671 notifications concerning dangerous products on the EU market, with over 2,000 originating from China. The most frequently reported categories were cosmetics, toys, and electrical equipment.
E-Commerce Platforms Under Scrutiny
EU consumer organizations warn the situation will worsen due to a rapid increase in imports from China via e-commerce platforms like Temu, Shein, and Alibaba. In 2024 alone, 4.6 billion small parcels entered the EU market, with 91% shipped from China.
Safety Concerns and Lack of Accountability
BEUC, the European consumer organization, noted that Chinese goods often fail to meet EU safety standards, citing examples like choking hazards in toys, skin-irritating cosmetics, and faulty electrical chargers. A key issue is the lack of clear responsibility for Chinese platforms regarding product safety within the EU.
Currently, the concept of an “authorized representative in the EU” is ineffective, making it difficult to determine accountability. Consumer groups are urging the EU to take urgent action, including blocking goods before they reach consumers.
New EU Regulations and Tariffs
The EU is attempting to regulate Chinese platforms, with the European Commission expected to present a product law proposal in September. Options include creating a dedicated EU market surveillance agency. A temporary tariff of €3 will be applied to small parcels shipped to the EU from third countries starting July 1st.
European Parliament Delegation Visits China
A delegation from the European Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO) visited Beijing and Shanghai, the first such visit in eight years, to meet with Chinese authorities and e-commerce giants like Temu, Shein, and Alibaba.
Polish MEP Highlights Trade Imbalance and Consumer Protection
Polish MEP Piotr Mueller, who participated in the visit, stated that the EU has observed a negative trade balance with China for many years and its growing role in e-commerce. He emphasized the priority of protecting European consumers and ensuring fair competition, and that the delegation firmly discussed product safety, pricing transparency, and user protection mechanisms.
Investigations into Digital Services Act Violations
The European Commission is investigating violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA) by online platforms, including those from China. Investigations are underway regarding addictive features on Temu and Shein, and a formal investigation was launched against Shein for selling illegal products, including sexually suggestive dolls resembling children.
China’s Position as a Major Trading Partner
According to European Commission data, China is the EU’s third-largest trading partner (after the United States and the United Kingdom) and its second-largest trading partner for goods.