13.02.2026 16:52
After the removal of the simplified customs procedure in Turkey, the China-based online shopping platform Temu, which halted its shipments and returned to the market as an official importer through WhaleCo, has come to the forefront due to a serious financial crisis in Europe. The cargo and logistics giant UPS filed a lawsuit, stating that it could not collect over 37 million Euros owed by WhaleCo for deliveries made on behalf of Temu.
After the simplified customs procedure was abolished in Turkey, the China-based online shopping platform Temu, which had halted its shipments, resumed operations as an official importer with a company established under the name WhaleCo. However, it was claimed that the said importing company faced payment issues in Europe.
35 MILLION EUROS IN PAYMENTS NOT MADE
The Ireland-based cargo and logistics giant UPS stated that it could not collect over 37 million euros owed by WhaleCo due to deliveries made to Europe on behalf of Temu and filed a lawsuit. In sworn statements submitted to the court, it was reported that the parties reached a temporary price agreement for small package transportation within Europe in 2024, and that UPS provided services at a significant discount in this context. However, according to UPS officials, WhaleCo continuously delayed or failed to make payments during this process.
AGREEMENT TERMINATED, NEW OFFER NOT ACCEPTED
According to a report by the Irish Times, the temporary agreement was terminated due to the accumulated debts, and UPS ended the discounted rate, reverting to standard pricing. The company also reported that it had made a new discount offer to WhaleCo, but this was not accepted. Despite this, it was stated that orders continued while payments were not made, and UPS eventually suspended WhaleCo's accounts.
THEY BLAMED THE BILLING SYSTEM
The WhaleCo side argued that administrative errors in UPS's billing system and service disruptions contributed to the accumulation of debt. UPS firmly rejected these claims, emphasizing that all receivables were accurate and documented. The court, which accepted UPS's application, indicated that it was possible for the parties to reach a settlement through mediation, suggesting that the process could proceed in this direction. The case will be revisited in the coming months.