- Developments Customs
Development Customs
Working together on the safe, swift and simple movement of Goods
Customs is currently undergoing a major reorganization. This reorganization is necessary on account of the fact that the European Union wishes to step up security at Europe’s external borders. At the same time, the competitive position of the Member States needs to be enhanced. The coming years will be marked by many changes, not only for Customs, but for entrepreneurs as well. Customs will therefore make every effort to inform you in a proper and timely manner so that you will be able to anticipate the changes and capitalize on the resulting business opportunities as quickly as possible.
Customs has developed a vision which takes global, European and national developments into account. This vision forms the basis of the changes which will affect both the business sector and Customs. Some of these changes concern enforcement on the basis of certification (the "horizontalization" of supervision), electronic data exchange between member states and changes in Customs’ working method and organization. These changes are intended to enhance the security of the flow of goods across the external borders while - at a time when the volume of the flow of goods is increasing on an annual basis - keeping logistical delays to a minimum.
Below you will find information on the following subjects:
- Working on the future
- Legislative changes almost finalized
- Collaboration essential
- Since January 2008: AEO status available to companies
Working on the Future
To realize its vision, Customs is collaborating with other parties on such matters as:
- Customs will focus its activities on the European Union’s external borders
- Customs will build new computerized systems for electronic data exchange
- Customs will determine - in close cooperation with corporate umbrella organizations - the criteria for providing facilities to companies. These companies will be able to profit from these legally prescribed facilities.
Legislative Changes almost Finalized
The legislative changes called for at the European level for stepping up security have already largely come into effect, or will come into effect in the short term. A second series of legislative changes is under preparation. It will bring about common standards and unambiguous rules for the business sector in Europe.
Collaboration essential
In its outlook for the future, the focus of Customs is on cooperation with trade and industry, other enforcement agencies and European member states. Companies which have taken measures to secure their logistical chain adequately will contribute to a safer Europe, and will be able to profit from this.
Since January 2008: AEO status available to companies
In the years to come, the supervision of the flows of goods will be the joint responsibility of the government and business sector. As of January 1, 2008, companies may qualify - albeit conditionally - for the status of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). This status will be valid throughout Europe, and will benefit companies logistically. Since Europe aims, amongst other things, to minimize the delays at borders by discouraging the use of paper, the manner in which companies lodge declarations is also rapidly changing. The programs that should achieve this fall under the scope of eCustoms.
