The EU and Canada have agreed to co-operate more closely by building on their existing customs co-operation agreement and extending it to include supply chain security and related risk-management matters.
EU Customs Commissioner Algirdas Šemeta said: “In a globalised world with globalised trade, no country can ensure the security of their supply chain in isolation. International co-operation is essential to protect citizens’ security while allowing the smooth flow of trade.”
The agreement would, he went on, provide the tools to improve customs controls while cutting red tape for safe traders in both territories.
Co-operation will include working towards mutual recognition of risk-management techniques, risk standards, security controls and trade partnership programmes, ie the EU’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and Canada’s Partners in Protection (PIP).
The agreement will be concluded after the ratification process in the EU and Canada, which is expected to take place in the coming months, is completed.
More information on EU customs co-operation agreements is available on the European Commission website.
