EU to Streamline Customs Code

The EU will take steps to simplify and streamline customs processes and procedures in Europe with the development of a modernized Community Customs Code that "will provide fewer and simpler rules adapted to a modern electronic and paperless customs environment," announced László Kovács, EU Taxation and Customs Commissioner.

Among numerous changes, the EU will standardize the electronic filing of customs declarations and accompanying documents, provide for the exchange of electronic information between national customs authorities, promote "centralized clearance" to allow authorized traders to declare goods electronically and pay customs duties in the country where their business is established, and encourage systems that allow economic operators to give customs information to only one contact point.

The agreement reached by EU Customs Ministers must be confirmed by the European Parliament and formally adopted by the European Council, the bi-annual meeting of EU heads of state and government.

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