Shopify ambiguous mass mail on European compliance

What happened?

Recently in September 2024 all Shopify stores selling goods to the EU countries got ambiguous emails

We understand that you have received very confusing communications from Shopify on European compliance in September 2024. The message suggests potential risks of tax under-reporting and fines. We want to assure you that as an EAS customer, you are not at risk of any such issues.

These messages from Shopify seem to overlook key regulatory changes that took effect in July 2021, now over three years ago. Rest assured, your necessary registrations are fully in place, and no further action is required on EAS customers part.

Why this happened?

Shopify’s platform, primarily focused on the North American market, operates within a different tax framework, particularly the GST system. This often results in other tax regimes’ regulation to be misinterpreted or at worst even invented as in this case and this isn’t the first time we’ve seen discrepancies in their communication regarding international tax regulations. In some cases, Shopify has implemented requirements on their platform based on regulations that are either misinterpreted or do not even exist. 

How EAS reacted on this?

At EAS, we are doing everything possible to address and correct these issues. 

In short, you are fully compliant, and there is no cause for concern. 

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don’t hesitate to contact us at teemu@easproject.com or schedule a meeting at this link.