Communication on customs risk management and security of the supply chain

The EU relies heavily on international trade for its economic development and is exposed to security and safety threats that come with this trade. Illicit international trade also undermines economic and social welfare in the EU. Effective risk management of the movement of goods through the international supply chain is critical for security and safety and essential to facilitating legitimate trade and protecting the financial and economic interest of the EU and its Member States.

Since ‘9/11’ and other terrorist attacks in Europe and elsewhere, security has become a top priority for European customs. The security of the EU, of the Member States and of citizens depends on each and every single point of entry of goods into the EU. If customs failed to act to tackle risks consistently along the EU’s external borders, the customs union and the EU single market would become unsustainable.

Customs policy is an EU competence: the Member States follow a common approach. The EU has the responsibility of supervising the Union’s international trade and upholding minimum standards of customs risk management and controls. Like many other jurisdictions and in line with international standards, the EU has a common policy framework intended to address risks and accelerate legitimate trade. In addition to adopting the relevant legislation, the customs administrations throughout the EU have taken action to overhaul control procedures, techniques and resources.

The purpose of this Communication is to:
- review the implementation of customs risk management policy;
- put forward a strategic approach for the years ahead;
- make recommendations for action with a focus on efficient deployment of resources.

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