Customs programme for cooperation in the field of customs 2021–2027

The European Parliament approved the Council position at first reading with a view to the adoption of a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Customs programme for cooperation in the field of customs and repealing Regulation (EU) No 1294/2013.

The proposed regulation establishes the ‘Customs’ programme for cooperation in the field of customs for the period from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2027. The duration of the programme corresponds to that of the multiannual financial framework.

Objectives

The general objective of the programme is to support the customs union and the customs authorities, cooperating and acting together, in order to protect the financial and economic interests of the Union and its Member States, to ensure security and safety within the EU and to protect the Union from unfair and illegal trade while facilitating legitimate economic activities.

The specific objectives of the programme are to support:

- the development and uniform implementation of customs legislation and policy;

- customs cooperation;

- administrative and IT capacity building, including human skills and training, and the development and operation of European electronic systems;

- innovation in the field of customs policy.

Accession countries, candidate countries and potential candidate countries, countries covered by the European Neighbourhood Policy, as well as other third countries, may participate in the programme in accordance with the conditions laid down in a specific agreement covering the participation of the third country in any EU programme.

Budget

The financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021-2027 would be set at EUR 950 million in current prices.

Implementation of the programme

The programme should be implemented through multi-annual work programmes adopted by means of implementing acts.

Given the importance of globalisation, the programme offers the possibility of using external experts, who should mainly be representatives of public authorities, as well as academics and representatives of international organisations, economic operators or civil society.

A clause concerning the obligation to draw up a report on the delegation of power and the extension of the delegation of power is also included.