Yes, our TVA in France is 19.6% on most things. When I ordered fabric from the USA, not only was it held by Customs here for over 6 weeks but I was charged the TVA, plus Customs handling, plus a set charge. It 's no use ordering fabric on special offer as the retailer has to put on the "real" value and the TVA is charged on that figure.
Together with the shipping it was an expensive purchase. But I know Kathryn (k3n) has bought from USA and it just came straight through - just luck I suppose.
All quilt fabric in France is imported and it's around an average of 20 Euros/metre.
Since Christmas I have bought online from various UK suppliers over 50 metres at between £2 and £5/metre - very pleased.