In 2023, the European Commission presented a proposal that marks a before and an after in the history of the EU Customs UnionThis is the most comprehensive reform since its creation in 1968.
These proposed measures represent a innovative global vision for EU Customs, seeking to significantly simplify customs processes for companies, especially the most trusted ones.
By embracing digital transformation, this reform aims to reduce complex customs formalities, replacing conventional declarations with a smarter, data-driven approach to monitor imports.
At the same time, it ensures that customs authorities have the necessary resources to effectively assess and stop imports that may pose real risks to the EU, its citizens and its economy.
What does the new customs framework seek to achieve?
The current reform responds to the current demands and challenges facing EU customs. These pressures include the significant increase in trade volumesespecially in the area of e-commerce, as well as the rapid growth in the number of EU regulations requiring border controls. In addition, changes in the geopolitical dynamics and emerging crises have underlined the need to update the customs framework.
This reform seeks to adapt the customs framework to a digital and green era, thus contributing to strengthening a more secure and competitive single market. One of the highlights of this reform is the simplification and streamlining of customs information requirements for traders, leading to a reduction in the time needed to complete import processes. In addition, a single EU interface will be established and the re-use of data will be facilitated, in line with the objective of reduce the administrative burden by 25%, without compromising the associated policy objectives.
A fundamental part of this reform is the creation of a new EU Customs Authoritywhich will oversee an EU Customs Data Centre. This centre will function as the engine of the new system, gradually replacing the existing customs IT infrastructure in the EU Member States. This transition is expected to generate significant savings in operating costsThe Commission's work on customs controls and risk management will contribute to a more efficient and effective approach to risk management and customs controls, especially in the context of e-commerce and other trade activities.
How will it affect ecommerce?
The position adopted by the European Parliament on the reform of the EU Customs Code marks a new stage in the reform of the EU Customs Code. significant milestone in the field of e-commerce. With the steady increase in online purchases of products from third countries, European authorities recognise the need for stricter regulation to ensure safety and compliance with EU regulations. According to estimates, approximately 65% of the imported packages are deliberately understated, This represents a considerable loss of revenue for the Union.
The proposed reform imposes greater accountability on web platforms, which will now be obliged to provide detailed information on the goods destined for any member country within one day. This measure will allow customs authorities to have a clearer picture of incoming shipments and to concentrate their controls on those operators and goods that may represent a breach of EU rules. Ecommerce companies will have to comply with these new regulations to avoid penalties and to ensure that they are able to ensure a legal and transparent operation in the European market.
Why focus on online trade?
The European Parliament's renewed focus on e-commerce is due to the exponential growth it has experienced in recent years. This growth has generated a number of challenges related to regulatory compliance, product safety and consumer protection. With the implementation of the customs reform, the aim is to centralising surveillance efforts on higher-risk operators, while optimising processes for the most reliable companies.
Undertakings that agree to undergo preliminary checks and demonstrate their reliability will be given the opportunity to obtain trusted operator status. This will enable them to operate with fewer customs controls and formalitiesThe simplification of processes and the creation of new ones, thus streamlining their business activities in the European market. The simplification of processes and the creation of tools such as EU DataHub facilitate communication between businesses and customs authorities, improving efficiency and transparency in online trade.
How the future of European ecommerce customs is shaping up
The reform of the EU Customs Code and the renewed focus on e-commerce paint a futuristic picture for the e-commerce sector in Europe. With stricter regulation and the adoption of advanced technological tools, it is expected that the e-commerce sector in Europe will increased transparency, security and efficiency in customs operations related to online commerce. Companies that adapt to these changes and comply with the new regulations will have the opportunity to benefit from a more favourable and competitive trading environment in the European market.
