EEA Customs Committee

The Customs Committee brings together the principle customs policy experts of the EEA, and addresses the many complex customs issues impacting express.

The strength and uniqueness of the committee comes from the fact that it brings together all the key players in the industry, even though they are competitors in the marketplace. Furthermore, the Committee works closely with other relevant industry associations in order to achieve its key policy objectives.

The Committee has two specific objectives. Firstly, it works to achieve harmonised customs clearance procedures for express shipments throughout Europe. Secondly, it promotes the earliest possible adoption by countries of the most advanced customs clearance processes.

The Committee’s current work is largely focused on the EU’s Modernised Customs Code and its many implementing rules. Ahead of the expected final adoption of these rules, the EEA is cooperating closely with relevant authorities to insure that the new code is implemented in the most efficient and secure manner possible.

Due to the volume of shipments transported by the express industry that require customs clearance, the express industry is a crucial partner for the European Commission. Therefore, the EEA is a formal member of the Trade Contact Group, a platform for the industry to advise the European Commission on customs policies and procedures.

The Committee comprises two permanent working groups, which deal with regulatory affairs and technical issues respectively. In addition, the Customs Committee also has a Central and Eastern Europe working group that meets on an-hoc basis.