Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps she is taking to ensure that online companies such as (a) Temu and (b) Shein are paying their due and import taxes for sales of products in the United Kingdom.

The Government recognises the increasing popularity of overseas retailers.

VAT is due on all imports of goods into the UK at the same rate as domestic transactions, meaning that overseas retailers contribute to the Exchequer. Imports valued below £135 can be imported into the UK without paying customs duty. Imports valued above £135 must pay the relevant duty.

HMRC’s compliance strategy seeks to ensure that overseas retailers pay the tax and duty they are liable for and addresses all forms of non-compliance.