Alan Healy: Can a €3 charge save Europe's high streets?

The large influx of Chinese goods has resulted in a significant impact on Ireland's retail sector, writes Alan Healy

Cork City Council have opened 17 files this year over the clustering of vape, phone and barber shops, many of which took over sites previously held by fashion retailers impacted by Chinese competition.  Picture: Larry Cummins

Europe has begun a campaign to save its high streets, one €3 step at a time.

From this week, all online purchases from outside the EU now attract a €3 customs duty per item. The target is clear: Shein, Temu, and AliExpress.