DUSHANBE, July 1, 2008, Asia-Plus — On July 1, the European Customs Union is celebrating its fortieth anniversary.
Over the past four decades, customs have played a crucial role in the development of the European Community: without efficient customs control at the EU”s external borders, the Single Market would never have been possible, press release issued by the European Commission Delegation in Tajikistan said.
Customs not only facilitate trade and ensure the protection of European industry but they prevent a flood of unsafe or counterfeit goods, which can endanger citizens” health and safety, from entering the EU. Customs also keep close control of the movement of chemicals which can be misused and transformed into harmful drugs and prevent illegal imports of animals which are internationally protected animals and or could introduce disease.
Laszlo Kovacs, EU Commissioner for Taxation and Customs said: “I am very proud of what European Customs achieve – both in terms of protecting people and facilitating trade – and proud of how far it has come in 40 years. Thanks to the effective customs controls at the EU”s external borders, the Union”s 500 million citizens can rely on the quality and safety of the products that are on the European market.”
In 2007, 183 million customs declarations were processed, equivalent to around 6 customs declarations every second. Over 43,000 cases of fake goods were seized at the EU”s external border last year and 43% of all unsafe product notifications which were made to market surveillance authorities are initiated by Customs.
Taking into account such statistics, and the ever increasing challenges posed by the globalized market place, the Commission works hard to ensure that the EU customs processes are fit to face the challenges of the 21st century.
The Modernized Community Customs Code, which was adopted by Council and Parliament in February 2008 will simplify legislation and streamline customs procedures to the benefit of both consumers and traders. It introduces the electronic exchange of declarations, documents and information to allow speedier and more efficient information exchange and promotes the concept of “centralized clearance” amongst other things.
