The EU Customs Reform (UCC) approval process is underway. Discover the imminent changes for European Imports from Asia, the introduction of the Customs Data Hub, and the evolution of the AEO status for your Supply Chain.
The Future of European Imports from Asia: The EU Customs Reform is in an Advanced Phase
The European Union is pushing forward with the approval process for the most comprehensive reform of its Customs Code (UCC) in decades. With the text currently under negotiation among European institutions and the first operational deadlines set for 2026—targeting full operation by 2028—it is no longer a mere proposal but an imminent reality that will redefine international trade.
This transformation, which aims to create a centralized and entirely digital customs system, will have a direct and profound impact on logistics in Asia and the supply chains connecting Asia to Europe.
The Birth of the EU Customs Data Hub: A Single Window
The core pillar of the new regulation is the establishment of the EU Customs Data Hub, a unique and centralized interface that will gradually replace the 27 national customs IT systems currently in use.
Key Points for the Supply Chain:
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Complete Digitalization: The objective is to eliminate paper bureaucracy and allow operators to submit all shipment data (declarations, security data) at a single point of access for the entire EU.
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Harmonization: A single platform will reduce divergent interpretations among Member States, leading to greater consistency and predictability in clearance times for goods imported from Asia.
2. 🔑 The New Status: From AEO to “Trust & Check”
The reform aims to reward the most reliable operators, evolving the current Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status. Although current AEO/AEOS authorizations remain valid until 2037 (with the AEOC component gradually merging into the new scheme), the future will be dominated by the Trust & Check Trader.
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Trusted Clearance: Operators with the new status will benefit from highly simplified clearance procedures and a reduced number of physical checks, basing their relationship with customs authorities on maximum trust and real-time data transmission.
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Competitive Advantage: Maintaining or acquiring the Trust & Check status will become a must for companies that require rapid and reliable transit times for high-volume flows from Asia.
3. E-commerce and Duties: A Revolution for B2C Parcels
The reform responds to the exponential growth of Asian e-commerce by introducing a change that will impact millions of small shipments:
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End of the Duty Exemption Below €150: The current exemption from customs duties for goods valued under 150 euros will be abolished.
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Marketplace Responsibility: E-commerce platforms (Marketplaces) will be considered the deemed importer and will be responsible for collecting and remitting VAT and duties at the time of online purchase.
This change ensures fairer competition and makes customs procedures more transparent.
Contact us for your international import shipments from Asia to Europe!
