Peter Agius & Adrian Delia Propose Free Delivery Scheme For Maltese After Temu Fees

Nationalist Party MEP Peter Agius and Shadow Finance Minister Adrian Delia have proposed a new EU-funded scheme aimed at helping Maltese consumers and businesses cope with higher costs linked to online purchases from outside the European Union.

Their proposal follows the introduction of a €3.54 EU customs fee on imports from China, the United Kingdom and other third countries earlier this summer. A further €2 handling fee is also expected to come into force in November, bringing the total additional cost to €5.54 per item.

Delia said the new charges place extra pressure on families who rely on affordable online shopping to manage the rising cost of living.

While acknowledging the EU's aim of encouraging purchases of European-made products, he argued that consumers in Malta still face high delivery costs when buying from EU retailers, limiting the intended benefits.

Agius pointed to the European Commission's Island Strategy, which notes that islands face significantly higher transport and delivery costs than mainland Europe. He argued that Malta should not be left carrying extra charges without measures to improve access to the EU's internal market.

The two PN representatives are proposing a €15 million annual scheme over two years, beginning in January 2027, to help businesses cover delivery costs of up to €3 per item category for sales to customers in Malta.

According to the proposal, businesses would be able to apply for grants of up to €30,000 to offset delivery expenses.

Agius said the scheme could qualify for EU funding under existing programmes supporting SME digitalisation and e-commerce, while also encouraging investment in local delivery networks and online retail.

Delia called on the Government to consider the proposal as part of the upcoming Budget, saying it should be viewed as a practical solution that benefits consumers and businesses rather than a political issue.

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