EU Reaches unified stance on reforming customs code 

EU customs
  • Publication
  • 1 minute read
  • 05 Sep 2025

On 27 June 2025, the Council of the European Union adopted its negotiating mandate for the revised Union Customs Code (UCC), moving forward with major reforms to modernise EU customs procedures. These reforms are designed to address the increase in e-commerce and recent geopolitical changes, focusing on improving customs oversight, protecting the Single Market, and fostering Member State cooperation. 

The initiative, first proposed by the Commission in May 2023 and endorsed by Parliament in March 2024, now enters negotiations between the Council and Parliament. A central aspect is the establishment of the European Customs Authority (EUCA) and a unified EU Customs Data Hub, which will streamline data submission for businesses and increase efficiency for customs authorities. This innovation is expected to save Member States about €2 billion annually. 

With 4.6 billion parcels imported in 2024, new rules will require online platforms and sellers to comply with customs standards, strengthening consumer protection and product safety. The reforms also include consideration of a standard handling fee for direct-to-consumer goods. 

Parcels in EU

Overall, the updated framework aims to streamline bureaucracy, reduce costs, enhance competition and support broader EU objectives, with implementation pending final approval after Parliamentary negotiations. 

Negotiations can now begin between the Council and the European Parliament regarding the final text of the regulation. The regulation will require formal approval from both parties before it comes into effect.  

Parcels in EU

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