Shipping organizations ECSABA, ECSA, ESC, ESPO, FEPORT, WSC stated the reform of the Union Customs Code (UCC) that was adopted by the European Parliament’s Internal Market Committee (IMCO).
Supporting Maritime Trade
Sent on behalf of the European Community Association of Ship Brokers and Agents (ECSABA), The European Community Shipowners Associations (ECSA), the European Shippers Council (ESC), the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), the Federation of European Private Port Companies and Terminals (FEPORT) and the World Shipping Council (WSC) the statement notes:
European shippers, ports, terminal operators, ship agents, and shipping lines are grateful for the important progress made by the IMCO Committee and the attention given to the maritime and port sector’s concerns. They urge the European Commission and Council to take on board these views and to work together with industry to address other outstanding issues to better support Europe’s maritime trade.
The strategic significance of maritime transport, upon which ninety percent of the EU’s external trade relies, underscores the necessity for the UCC to be well-aligned with this sector. Facilitating maritime transport, including efficient goods storage in ports, is crucial for seamless connectivity between maritime transport and hinterland logistics chains.
Multiple Changes
The MEPs’ stance against the proposed revision of rules for temporary storage of goods in EU ports is particularly appreciated. The EC’s proposal to reduce the maximum duration of temporary storage from 90 days to 3 days is deemed impractical for shipping, imposing significant administrative burdens and reducing the efficiency of EU ports in handling, importing, exporting, and transshipment of cargo. The IMCO amendments are seen as maintaining a well-adapted current legal framework that remains fit for purpose.
Despite this positive development, other issues require attention. With major new IT systems and entry processes set to launch this year for shipping, including the transformative cargo security system, ICS 2, the existing legal basis supporting preparations, investments, and their functioning must be maintained. The Committee’s amendments partially address this by proposing an extension of existing rules and data requirements related to UCC ‘electronic systems.’ However, legal certainty for processes such as cargo security extends beyond electronic systems and must urgently be remedied.
Overall, there is a welcoming stance towards the overall direction of the UCC reform, aiming for a more harmonized customs union and reducing economic drag on Europe’s maritime commerce.
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Source: Safety4Sea
