Minister warns public about potential extra charges when online shopping on UK websites The main concerns for consumers are the possibility of additional costs. By Garreth MacNamee Wednesday 6 Jan 2021, 6:45 AM Jan 6th 2021, 6:45 AM 23,607 Views 40 Comments Image: Shutterstock/Rawpixel.com Image: Shutterstock/Rawpixel.com TRADE MINISTER ROBERT Troy has reminded consumers about new arrangements now in place for online retail under the recently concluded agreement between the EU and the UK. Following Britain’s leaving of the Customs Union on New Year’s Day, a new set of rules for online trading came into effect. Troy said the main concerns for consumers are the possibility of additional costs, by way of VAT and Customs charges that may apply depending on the value and origin of the goods in question.