The Union Customs Code (UCC) that will be implemented on May 1, 2016 contains provisions that create an environment for paperless transactions and communication between Customs and Trade. These provisions will be implemented during the period of 2016 to 2019, as European Union (EU) Member States are able to upgrade their current systems and roll out new applications. 

The UCC envisages the total demise of the “paper declaration” commonly known as the single administrative document (SAD).  All applications for decisions, including but not limited to Binding Tariff Information (BTIs), licenses and authorizations will need to be completed and submitted electronically.

The UCC underlines and legislates the goals of the Multi Annual Strategic Plan (MASP) for the development and roll-out of EU wide applications and systems.  The MASP currently consists of 16 UCC related IT projects all due for completion in the period 2016 to 2020. In addition to the MASP, a number of other transitional arrangements for IT systems will be introduced. This will balance the transition of new data requirements with the introduction of new IT systems.

Further information on the MASP and the preliminary work program can be accessed through the link here