Austrian Chancellor and OVP leader Christian Stocker addressed journalists on October 12, 2026, regarding the nation's new parcel tax. Since October, a fee of 2.40 euros including VAT applies to 15 major online retailers with revenues exceeding 100 million euros.
Stocker defended the measure by citing its steering effect against the rising flood of packages. However, NEOS leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger, whose party helped pass the tax, now calls it a failure. Stocker signaled a willingness to discuss ending the levy.
The Chancellor stated that any potential abolition of the parcel tax requires a concrete counter-proposal. This debate highlights the ongoing political tension surrounding the fiscal measure as leaders weigh its environmental impact against economic concerns.