In view of International Customs Day 2025, which will be celebrated next Sunday, 23 organizations from the trade sectors, logistics and the maritime-port sector, including shipowners' associations ECSA and WSC as well as the CLECAT, ESC, ECASBA, IATA and IPCSA, presented a joint declaration calling on the European Union to implement a customs reform, which is currently being defined, that keeps pace with the increasing complexity of commerce global.

In particular, the 23 organisations, which are represented in the EU's Trade Contact Group (TCG), call for a Smarter, faster and more secure border management driven by digital transformation and partnerships public-private measures that are considered more solid essential to ensure a competitive business environment and able to meet the challenges of the global economy.

"Our organizations - it is specified in the joint statement - call for efficient, stable and to align customs processes with rapid evolution supply chains. These systems should also increase the competitiveness of companies through simplified procedures and business-friendly that ensure smooth and foreseeable, in particular for the "trusted economic operators". Digital solutions, as platforms interoperable and real-time data sharing, are essential to enable a border that works for trade and for security, able to implement customs clearance and the 'one-stop-shop' approach. These advances will ensure that customs procedures are efficient and able to support a customs reform oriented both in the EU and in the rest of the world. Computer systems proactively adopt the latest technologies, going beyond a reactive position to over-regulation retrospective. Legislators and regulators should ensure that all elements relating to the information technology of the new customs legislation are designed to rapid updates in both system processes and technology".

"At the same time - continues the Document - Strengthening border security must remain a priority. Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, together with Ambitious and reliable partnerships between industry and forces of the order, are essential for improving management systems risk and fight illicit trade, ensuring that the the uninterrupted flow of lawful goods. This dual attention to safety and facilitation ensures that customs authorities can adapt to emerging threats, while increasing trade facilitation for lawful activities".

"Furthermore - we read more - our organizations emphasize the importance of invest in recruiting and training a workforce highly qualified. Customs professionals must be equipped with the knowledge, experience and tools to navigate the complexities of commercial environments and make effective use of innovative technologies. Building this capacity is critical to achieving the objectives of International Customs Day 2025".

"We invite political decision-makers - concludes the document - to prioritise the adoption of effective legislation and and the allocation of resources to the authorities recognising their key role in enabling the Trade, protecting borders and driving economic growth. The investments in IT infrastructure and strength development ensure that customs can comply with their commitments, meet the objectives of the World Customs 2025 theme Organization and support the objectives outlined in the reform EU Customs Authority'.