Ticking all the boxes for consumers in the EU Customs Reform

The EU customs reform seeks to modernise border controls to address the rise in cross-border e-commerce and ensure product safety and compliance within the European Single Market. BEUC’s checklist outlines key consumer protection priorities, including ensuring consumers are not held liable as importers, that importers are responsible to ensure compliance with EU law, implementing fair handling fees, and harmonising penalties for customs breaches. The document also highlights the need for improved data transparency and cooperation among customs authorities to better tackle unsafe and non-compliant products entering the EU.

This reform carries significant implications for consumers, traders, and enforcement bodies as it aims to balance efficient customs processes with safeguarding public health, safety, and sustainability standards.