Customs Trade Consultations

Regular consultation with representatives from industry associations is important for developments of customs policy which will have a direct impact on the international logistical processes. The TRADE CONTACT GROUP (TCG) provides a platform for such a regular consultation with trade representatives who have their contacts and knowledge on the operational logistical processes. The Trade Information and Consultation Processes as agreed in the terms of reference for the TCG (pdf 47 Kb)(47 Kb)  aim at providing a structure for ensuring that the involvement of trade in the strategic as well as operational part of Community Customs initiatives takes place in a coordinated and appropriate way. The Commission consults the representatives on the development and implementation of customs related issues concerning the Community Customs Policy.

The TCG ensures a successful incorporation of the European traders' requirements on one hand and making best use of existing trade expertise throughout the realization of EC customs initiatives. The information and consultation processes with the TCG can be further complemented with targeted consultations on specific Customs related issues, as well on European level as national level with the customs authorities in the Member States.

The members of the TCG (pdf 757 Kb)(757 Kb)  are representatives of the main international associations involved in customs related activities at the European level. The status of the trade representatives within the TCG is of "consultative" nature. Structured dialogue between Commission and trade occurs on a regular basis. The group meets at least twice a year, in Brussels. When considered necessary additional ad-hoc meetings can be organized. Also in addition to the regular TCG meetings, thematic meetings of the TCG can be organized for discussion on a specific subject.

The meetings of the TCG are hosted by the European Commission's Taxation and Customs Union Directorate-General and are chaired by the DG's Director of Customs Policy. Coordination of the TCG is covered by the unit TAXUD/A1, which can be contacted for further information by e-mail: TAXUD-UNIT-A1@ec.europa.eu

The Mandate of the Trade Contact Group

1. The TCG will provide a forum for a mutual exchange of views between economic operators and the Commission's services on all customs-related issues, particularly in respect of
   • the electronic customs initiative;
   • the modernised customs code;
   • implementation of current and future customs legislation; and
   • developments of customs policy.
2. Provide means for economic operators to contribute to the development and implementation of customs related issues.
3. Members of the TCG may identify, discuss, analyse and give, where appropriate, their opinion in written form of any customs related issue of interest to both economic operators and the Commission.
4. The TCG will be informed on participation of economic operators in particular projects or pilots organised by the European Commission.