The Union Customs Code recast, adopted by the Parliament in its first/single reading at the September 2013 plenary session following the ordinary procedure, was the result of huge efforts from the three Institutions to reach a balance compromise text acceptable by all parties, after several all day-long technical meetings and trilogues. The EP negotiating team (IMCO rapporteur, its shadows and IMCO Chair) succeeded in its intention to provide economic operators, including and especially small and medium-sized enterprises, with a less burdensome administrative environment. Furthermore, thanks to an amendment inserted by MEPs, the companies that are now granted the status of "authorized economic operator" (AEO), would get preferential treatment, such as lighter customs controls with fewer physical and document checks. This status, if mutually recognised by the EU and a third country, should also make it easier for these companies to trade outside the EU. The EP prerogative to have in the basic act or via delegation of power issues linked to data requirements, time-limits and thresholds has also been kept in the negotiated text.
The new regulation entered into force since 30 October 2013 (with the exception of certain provisions which will apply from 1 June 2016).
Rapporteur: Constance Le Grip (EPP)
Shadow Rapporteurs: Sylvana Rapti (S&D), Olle Schmidt (ALDE), Pascal Canfin (GREENS/EFA), Adam Bielan (ECR), Matteo Salvini (EFD)
Opinion - JURI and INTA
Source : © European Union, 2014 - EP