Shipping organizations ECSABA, ECSA, ESC, ESPO, FEPORT, WSC issued a statement on the reform of the Union Customs Code (UCC) that was adopted by the European Parliament’s Internal Market Committee (IMCO).
Sent on behalf of the European Community Association of Ship Brokers and Agents (ECSABA), The European Community Shipowners Associations (ECSA), the European Shippers Council (ESC), the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), the Federation of European Private Port Companies and Terminals (FEPORT) and the World Shipping Council (WSC) the statement notes:
European shippers, ports, terminal operators, ship agents and shipping lines, are grateful for the important progress made by the IMCO Committee and the attention given to the maritime and port sector’s concerns. They urge the European Commission and Council to take on board these views and to work together with industry to address other outstanding issues to better support Europe’s maritime trade.
What is the Union Customs Code (UCC)?
The Union Customs Code (UCC) defines the legal framework for customs rules and procedures in the EU customs territory, adapted to modern trade models and communication tools. The UCC has simplicity, service and speed as its key objectives.
Its aim is to:
- Offer greater legal certainty and uniformity to businesses and increase clarity for customs officials throughout the EU
- Complete the shift to a paperless and fully electronic customs environment
- Reinforce swifter customs procedures for compliant and trustworthy economic operators (AEO)
- Enhance the competitiveness of European businesses and thereby advance the main goals of the EU strategy for growth and jobs
- Protect the flow of goods transiting or moving in and out of the EU
- Safeguard the financial and economic interests of the EU and of the Member States, as well as the safety and security of EU citizens.
The strategic significance of maritime transport, upon which ninety percent of the EU’s external trade relies, underscores the necessity for the UCC to be well-aligned with this sector. Facilitating maritime transport, including efficient goods storage in ports, is crucial for seamless connectivity between maritime transport and hinterland logistics chains.
The MEPs’ stance against the proposed revision of rules for temporary storage of goods in EU ports is particularly appreciated. The EC’s proposal to reduce the maximum duration of temporary storage from 90 days to 3 days is deemed impractical for shipping, imposing significant administrative burdens and reducing the efficiency of EU ports in handling, importing, exporting, and transshipment of cargo. The IMCO amendments are seen as maintaining a well-adapted current legal framework that remains fit for purpose.
Despite this positive development, other issues require attention. With major new IT systems and entry processes set to launch this year for shipping, including the transformative cargo security system, ICS 2, it is imperative that the existing legal basis supporting preparations, investments, and their functioning is maintained. The Committee’s amendments partially address this by proposing an extension of existing rules and data requirements related to UCC ‘electronic systems.’ However, legal certainty for processes such as cargo security extends beyond electronic systems and must urgently be remedied.
Overall, there is a welcoming stance towards the overall direction of the UCC reform, aiming for a more harmonized customs union and reducing economic drag on Europe’s maritime commerce.
The proposed EU Customs Data Hub, the EU Maritime Single Window Environment, and the Customs Single Window are seen as crucial components that must seamlessly integrate to deliver benefits for EU importers, exporters, ports, terminals, agents, and shipping lines.
We stand ready to find solutions and support the efforts of the EC, MEPs and Member States to establish the smart, safe, and competitive Customs Union that the EU, its citizens and businesses need.
… concluded the organizations in their statement
