EU to Launch New Import Control System in March 2021

The European Union will launch its new customs pre-arrival security program in March 2021, calling it a “complete overhaul” of its existing customs regime. The program, the Import Control System 2, will collect data on all EU imports before their arrival and will require “Economic Operators” to declare security data through an “Entry Summary Declaration,” according to a May 11 European Commission newsletter. Although the system launches next year, some operators may not have to begin filing those declarations until 2023 or 2024, the newsletter said. The effective date depends “on the type of services they provide in the international movement of goods,” the commission said.

The commission said the goal of the system is to improve EU customs security through the use of data, adding that the system will not restrict free trade. “It will support effective risk-based customs controls whilst facilitating free flow of legitimate trade across the EU external borders,” the commission said. The commission also issued a fact sheet and a set of frequently asked questions.

All handlers, shippers and transporters of cargo will be impacted by the new system, the commission said, and “need to start getting ready for it.” Operators should start by “adapting their business processes,” making sure they can provide the required data, updating their information technology systems for information exchange and start training staff. If operators ”are not ready in time” and cannot submit data to the system, cargo will be stopped at EU borders and “customs will not proceed with goods clearance.” The commission added that “poor quality declarations” may be rejected or “subject to unnecessary interventions,” including penalties.