Creation of a European Customs Agency

29.10.2010

Question for written answer E-9415/2010
to the Commission
Rule 117
Sebastian Valentin Bodu (PPE)

The powers of national customs authorities tend to vary between Member States. This gives rise to differing practices in terms of application of customs regimes, classification of goods, determination of duty on goods, the fight against fraud, etc.

The customs union is the cornerstone of the EU internal market, and the field of customs is one of those characterised by the highest degree of integration. The unified application of the Community customs legislation over the entire customs territory of the Union is essential.

It is vital to ensure uniform treatment for economic operators and goods in movement and subject to specific customs regimes or procedures.

Does the Commission believe it is necessary to create a European Customs Agency (ECA), which would be responsible for managing, on a uniform and standardised basis, all of the customs-related areas that are governed by EC law?

OJ C 265 E, 09/09/2011