France Rolls Out First National Tax on Cheap Garments
France has approved a new environmental charge targeting the fast fashion sector, marking one of Europe’s boldest moves to reduce textile waste. The scheme introduces a €5 fee per clothing item, which will rise to €10 by 2030. The rate will vary based on each brand’s sustainability performance, with the total capped at half of the product’s pre-tax price. In addition, the legislation will require all garments to carry an environmental impact label, offering consumers greater transparency about how their clothes are made.
Brussels Plans to End Duty-Free Perks for Imports
The European Commission is preparing to close long-standing tax loopholes that have benefited international fast fashion retailers. Under new proposals, the EU would scrap the exemption for imported goods valued below €150 and impose a €2 handling charge on all parcels entering the bloc. The initiative is intended to curb the flood of low-cost imports and ensure that foreign e-commerce platforms are subject to the same tax and environmental standards as EU-based companies.
Member States Promote Sustainable Fashion Practices
Alongside new tax measures, several European countries are introducing incentives aimed at extending the life cycle of clothing. Sweden has reduced its value-added tax on tailoring and mending services, while the Netherlands has followed with similar programs encouraging repairs over replacements. Spain has gone further, obliging fashion producers to help fund textile collection and recycling systems. Together, these efforts mark a continental shift toward circular fashion and a move away from the throwaway culture driving the industry’s rapid growth.
