A Global Solution for the EU Import Control Systems
(Supply & Demand Chain Executive – Stefan Busselot, Descartes Systems Group)
New customs manifest filing requirements in the European Union will pose new challenges
for carriers … and shippers, too
As global supply chains grow in complexity, regulatory and customs authorities are becoming more ambitious in implementing electronic customs filing processes to improve security and speed processes. While many of these filing requirements have similarities, additional complexities need to be considered when crossing multiple jurisdictional boundaries – an especially challenging issue when dealing with European Union (EU) compliance demands.
As with other regions, the EU is introducing customs compliance regulations to standardize and automate its customs filings process. As the world’s most important exporter and second most important importer, according to a 2008 EU Commission report, the EU’s efforts to address the security and automation of trade shipments through electronic customs initiatives will have a significant impact on exporters and importers across the global supply chain.
Specifically, as of January 1, the EU’s Import Control System (ICS) and Export Control System (ECS) customs manifest filing processes and requirements take effect. The burden of supplying advanced shipment information for products en route to the EU, or going to other destinations via the EU, will now rest with the carriers. This transition presents process change requirements for non-EU exporters and carriers alike. Read more here.
Date: December 3, 2010
