The European Union has called for a handling fee across the bloc on small packages from online shopping platforms, effective in early 2026, the Financial Times reported Thursday, citing a letter from trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič.

The move could affect online traders such as Shein, Temu, and Alibaba (HKG:9988), according to the report.

The European Commission called on finance ministers in the 27-nation bloc to sign off on the proposed change quickly to "send a strong signal that Europe is serious about increasing its competitiveness and ensuring fair conditions for its businesses," the report said.

The move is seen as the commission's toughening of its stance against China and its alleged unfair trade practices, according to the FT.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)