Commissioner Maroš Sefčovič hosts Implementation Dialogue on EU Customs Reform

The Implementation Dialogue on the EU Customs Reform, held on 8 June 2026 under the chairmanship of Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, brought together representatives from industry, trade associations, and the Commission to discuss the practical aspects of implementing the recently agreed Customs Reform.

Stakeholders confirmed strong support for the Reform's core ambitions: creating a simpler, more digitalised, and resilient customs union that enhances competitiveness, security, and Single Market integrity. Participants acknowledged the transformative potential of the Reform, particularly through the introduction of the EU Customs Data Hub (DH) and the Trust and Check (T&C) regime, which promise to streamline processes and reduce compliance costs for businesses. However, the discussion also underscored challenges about its practical implementation, with businesses emphasising the need for greater clarity, more guidance, realistic timelines, and collaborative preparation to ensure a smooth transition.

A central point of focus was the EU Customs Data Hub, viewed as the backbone of the Reform, but also a source of risks if it is not timely executed. Stakeholders called for robust contingency measures; early, detailed technical guidance to help businesses adapt to new data-sharing requirements, as well as assurances of cybersecurity and harmonised application across Member States to prevent fragmentation.

The Trust and Check regime was widely described as a major innovation, offering compliant traders the prospect of faster clearances and reduced administrative burdens. Some concerns were raised about smaller businesses and customs intermediaries' access. Stakeholders also called for detailed guidance on requirements, data obligations, benefits, and clarifications on the differences between that new status and the AEO status.

Beyond these two pillars, the dialogue surfaced practical challenges related to the abolition of the €150 de minimis threshold and the risk of divergent national interpretations of the Reform.

Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and stakeholders recognised that the Customs Reform presents a historic opportunity to modernise EU customs. With continued engagement between authorities and businesses, the Reform will deliver a more efficient, secure, and unified customs system that supports trade while safeguarding the Single Market and protecting EU values.

Learn more about the EU Customs Reform

Learn more about the dialogue on the dedicated event page

Implementation dialogues are a consultation tool at the political level launched in the spring of 2025, underscoring the Commission's efforts to promote the EU's competitiveness by directly engaging stakeholders in policy implementation. The main purpose is to strengthen and boost European competitiveness by seeking feedback from stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of EU policies and the simplification of EU rules and spending programs. These meetings will be held by Commissioners twice per year and the outcomes will be made available to the wider public.