Customs Union action plan

Key points

The EESC welcomes the very concrete Action Plan for the next five years to support national customs authorities. Once implemented, with regular impact assessments, it will lead to real modernisation of customs across the EU.

However, the EESC is not sure that all Member States are ready to embrace the proposed timetable and put their share of the money on the table.

It believes that customs authorities should be provided with adequate resources for all the non-financial responsibilities, while minimum standards for control and for the number of staff required should be introduced.

Moreover, the EESC recommends immediately exploring the introduction of blockchain technology in the proposed action plan.

Finally, it suggests that special attention be paid to the most vulnerable entry and exit points and appreciates that the strength of the Customs Union is determined by its weakest link.

For more information please contact the INT Section Secretariat.