EC Adopts New Regulation on Import/Export Security

The European Commission (“EC”) has adopted a regulation aimed at increased security for shipments entering or leaving the European Union (“EU”) and providing greater facilitation for compliant operators.

The new regulation introduces a framework for better risk analysis of goods crossing EU borders. From 1 January 2008, reliable traders (“Authorized Economic Operators”) respecting high standard security criteria will benefit from trade facilitation measures and from 1 July 2009 the electronic exchange of advance information between traders and customs authorities on all goods entering or leaving the EU, will be introduced.

The regulation also requires customs authorities to exchange information electronically on exports in order to speed up export procedures.

The EU and United States are currently discussing the possibility of mutual recognition of the EU standards.

The EC's "Frequently Asked Questions" document answers questions about amendments to European Customs security requirements.

If you have any questions regarding European Customs requirements, please contact Laura Atlee at 011-322-626-0516 or at latlee@steptoe.com.