Despite trade tensions and the return of protectionist measures worldwide, European customs continued their harmonisation and digital transition efforts in 2025, the European Commission emphasises in its annual progress report on the EU Customs programme.
While negotiating new trade partnerships around the world, the EU is also advancing the reform of the Customs Union in order to promote international trade while safeguarding the single market, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated in her latest State of the Union address.
The year 2025 was a pivotal one for European customs: negotiations on the Customs Union reform were launched, while new measures were introduced to tax ‘small’ parcels valued at less than €150 (see EUROPE 13806/23), which are flooding the European market. Member States also prepared for the creation of a new agency, the European Customs Authority (EUCA). Last year was also crucial for the preparation of the future 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework, including a new Single Market and Customs Programme (SMCP). At the same time, 2025 was marked by the return of protectionist measures, calling for a European response to limit the destabilising effects of these new surcharges.
In light of these changes, the Commission’s progress report highlights that the EU Customs programme continued its modernisation in 2025, allocating the majority of its budget to maintaining and modernising the Union’s digital customs systems. The Commission also notes that certain activities within the programme, aimed at strengthening collaboration among European customs authorities, have borne fruit. The ‘Customs and Tax’ portal has also played a significant role in standardising customs, implementing legislation and supporting the work of customs officers. While the 2024 report noted weak engagement from programme beneficiaries and candidate countries, the Commission observes improved involvement in 2025.
See the progress report: https://aeur.eu/f/n2k (Original version in French by Juliette Verdes)