EU Launches Policy to Modernize Customs System

08:15 AM EDT, 09/21/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The European Union on Monday started the gradual rollout of its new customs policy aimed at modernizing the system by making it more digital and data-driven. The EU Customs Reform introduces a new Union Customs Code to simplify customs procedures, harmonize processes, and bolster risk management across the bloc. Under the reforms, the EU Customs Authority was established in Lille, France, on Sept. 20, 2026, and is expected to start operations in 2027. The authority will develop the EU Customs Data Hub, which will gradually replace the currently fragmented customs IT systems with a single interface for customs operations. The data hub is expected to be operational for e-commerce by July 2028 and for other trade by 2031.