As of 1 July 2024, the European Union has officially launched the first phase of the Centralised Clearance for Import (CCI) system, a key step forward in the digitalisation of the EU's customs clearance processes. This new system, which is integral to the Union Customs Code (UCC), promises to streamline customs procedures, offering significant benefits for businesses engaged in international trade across the European Union (EU).
A significant step in customs simplification
The CCI system introduces a groundbreaking simplification: economic operators can now submit a single customs declaration to one customs office in the EU, regardless of where the goods physically enter the EU (physical presentation of the goods in another EU member state). This means businesses will only interact with a supervising customs office which acts as a one-stop-shop, coordinating the entire process among the relevant customs offices in the different member states.
Key benefits of the CCI system for EU companies
For businesses operating internationally, the CCI system offers numerous advantages:
- Faster customs clearance: The automation and centralisation of customs declarations expedite the clearance process, reducing delays and facilitating quicker access to markets.
- Reduction in customs procedures: By eliminating some customs procedures, e.g. the transit procedure, the CCI system simplifies the import process, allowing goods to move more seamlessly through EU borders.
- Administrative efficiency: With a single point of contact the administrative workload is significantly reduced, making the entire process more manageable and less time-consuming.
- Cost savings: Centralised processes lower operational costs, enhance transparency and ensure compliance, providing a more predictable business environment.
How to utilise the CCI system
To leverage the benefits of the CCI system, businesses must be an authorised economic operator for customs simplifications (AEO-C) in order to obtain a CCI authorisation. This involves applying to the competent customs authorities in the EU member state where the business is established.
Current availability, future developments and training opportunities
Currently, European businesses in Bulgaria, Estonia, Spain, Luxembourg, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania can utilise this system. Additional member states are expected to join gradually during the next year. The first phase of the CCI system will allow for the automated processing of standard customs declarations for goods physically presented at customs offices in other member states, covering procedures such as release for free circulation, customs warehousing, inward processing and end-use.
The implementation of the CCI system is just beginning. The second phase, scheduled for 2 June 2025, will further expand the system's capabilities, including processing simplified and supplementary declarations, entry into declarant’s records, excise goods and goods within special fiscal territories.
We support your business
At PwC, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with adapting to new regulatory environments. Our expertise in international trade and customs compliance positions us to support your business in seamlessly transitioning to the CCI system. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in navigating these changes and enhancing your operational efficiency.
