Customs

Customs-related security initiatives of the EU include the concept of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and security cooperation with non-EU countries.

A vast majority of EU customs declarations for both import and export are now submitted to customs electronically, instead of using paper-format.

The EU has simplified and harmonised international trade procedures to make it easier for EU business to import and export.

The EU signs customs cooperation agreements with its largest trading partners, which often contain provisions on security and simplification of procedures.

The European Union's basic customs legislation is contained in the Customs Code and the Code's implementing provisions.

A standard set of rules has been created for establishing the value of goods, which is used to calculate customs duties.

Supporting co-operation between national customs administrations - exchange information, develop skills and competences and share best working practices.​

The EU maintains extensive documentation on all aspects of customs, from how to make a customs declaration to customs formalities for ships.