Italy is working to adopt a tax on low-value postal packages from non-European countries, senior politicians said, as part of measures to protect its fashion industry from low-cost imports mostly from China.

The move targets online platforms such as Shein and Temu.

“Our measures will be in force by the end of this year,” Industry Minister Adolfo Urso told reporters.

Italy’s ruling parties plan to apply a levy to consignments worth less than €150 (US$175), in line with a proposal being discussed at European Union level, other politicians said.

Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called for the faster introduction of the wider EU tax, saying in a statement it should come into force in 2026 rather than 2028, as currently envisaged.

“We need strong and fast European rules to stem the non-European aggression that is invading our market with cheap and unregulated products,” Giorgetti said.