Customs Union: new European action plan launched

The European Commission launched a new action plan for the EU Customs Union on 28 September. The aim of the action plan is to make the Union's customs smarter, more innovative and more efficient within the next four years through an integrated European approach, given their fundamental role in protecting the safety and health of EU citizens.

The initiatives included in the action plan are as follows:

Risk management: increased availability and use of data and data analysis for customs purposes. Establishment of a new analytical centre for the collection, analysis and sharing of customs data to identify critical issues.
E-commerce management: the obligations of payment service providers and online sales platforms will be strengthened in order to combat customs and tax fraud in e-commerce.
Promoting compliance: a “single window” initiative for businesses, which will lead to greater ease in completing customs formalities. Competent authorities will also be able to share information more effectively.
Joint action by customs authorities: introduction of modern and reliable customs equipment. Formation of a group of Member State representatives to prepare for crises and future developments.