the imposition of tariffs on goods imported from China..
Speaking to the Mediengruppe Bayern, Weber highlighted the increasing prevalence of Chinese products, particularly from online retailers like Temu, flooding the European market. He cited figures indicating over four billion packages containing these goods entered the EU last year, often characterized as being of lower quality.
Weber suggested a system of tariffs – he termed “a sort of junk tax” – levied at two, three, or four euros per package. He estimates this measure could generate a substantial sum for the EU budget, while also potentially curbing demand for these low-cost imports.
The proposal has been presented as a means to support European businesses, with Weber specifically noting that it could benefit retailers in Bavarian town centers. He believes this measure would be welcomed by many local businesses currently facing competition from these significantly cheaper goods.
