The debate over the taxation of sales between individuals on platforms like Vinted and LeBonCoin is gaining momentum. This issue raises significant economic and social stakes, particularly regarding competition with traditional retail. According to a recent study, in 2023, over 15 million French people used these platforms to sell second-hand items, generating an estimated revenue of 7 billion euros.
The Rise of Peer-to-Peer Commerce: Opportunity or Threat?
Peer-to-peer selling platforms have seen explosive growth in recent years. Vinted, a leader in second-hand fashion, and LeBonCoin, an essential general marketplace, have revolutionized our consumption habits. This phenomenon is part of a broader trend towards a circular economy and waste reduction.
However, this rapid growth raises questions. Traditional retailers decry unfair competition, arguing that individual sellers are not subject to the same tax burdens as they are. Indeed, up to a certain threshold, income from these sales is not taxable.
Here’s a look at the advantages and disadvantages of this model:
- Advantages: access to attractive prices, reduction of waste, supplementary income for individuals
- Disadvantages: pressure on traditional businesses, risk of developing a parallel economy
Towards Regulation of the Second-Hand Market?
In light of these issues, the question of taxing sales on these platforms is becoming increasingly pressing. Since 2021, European regulations require marketplaces to transmit the tax information of their sellers to national authorities. In France, sales are reported to the tax administration once they exceed 2000 euros per year or 30 items sold.
However, the tax threshold remains set at 5000 euros annually, which leaves a significant margin for occasional sellers. This situation raises debates about tax fairness and the protection of traditional commerce.
As an experienced seller on Vinted since 2018, I’ve noticed that most users are individuals simply looking to clear out their closets. Nevertheless, some do turn it into a genuine business, buying and reselling in bulk.
| Seller Type | Characteristics | Current Tax Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Occasional | Selling their own items | No taxation up to 5000€/year |
| Semi-professional | Regular buying and reselling | Tax gray area |
| Declared professional | Established commercial activity | Subject to regular taxes |
Taxing sales on Vinted and LeBonCoin: moving towards regulation of peer-to-peer commerce?
What Solutions for Economic Balance?
Implementing a balanced taxation on sales between individuals presents a complex challenge. It’s about finding the right middle ground between preserving the circular economy and protecting traditional commerce. Several options are being considered:
- Lowering the tax threshold for income from these platforms
- Introducing a specific tax on transactions, similar to the 3% contribution announced by Emmanuel Macron on second-hand book sales
- Strengthening controls to identify “professional sellers” disguised as individuals
With over 1500 orders completed on Vinted, I can attest to the importance of maintaining the ease of use of these platforms. Overly strict regulation could discourage occasional sellers and harm the circular economy that these sites promote.
Ultimately, the question of taxing sales on Vinted and LeBonCoin raises crucial issues for the future of commerce. Balancing the protection of traditional retailers with the encouragement of the circular economy, decision-makers will need to find a delicate equilibrium. The solution will likely lie in a nuanced approach, distinguishing true individuals from semi-professionals, while preserving the appeal of these platforms for the general public.
