eCustoms refers to the automated exchange of customs information between different economic operators and customs authorities.

Delays in cross-border movement of goods and in customs interactions are often due to inadequate automation and communication and lead to delayed deliveries for end buyers. The EU4Digital eTrade thematic area’s eCustoms pilot addresses these issues by providing cooperation models, efficient information sharing and optimised interactions with customs offices, reducing trade costs and expediting deliveries.

The EU4Digital Facility selected the SEED (Systematic Exchange of Electronic Data) solution as the most suitable for the eCustoms pilot. SEED, financed by the EU and successfully implemented in the region, offers proven security, data standards, easy adaptation to national systems, and flexibility in functionality and data exchange requirements. It has effectively addressed problems such as undervaluation, fake confirmation of exits, irregularities in transport documents and customs offences. The eCustoms pilot aims to enable electronic customs data exchange between Eastern partner countries and EU member states. It started with limited functionalities and data sets. The successful implementation of an eCustoms pilot between Ukraine and Romania demonstrated improved customs data exchange processes, customs clearance, risk assessment and cross-border cooperation. Recommendations for full-scale solution implementation and replication across the region are to be prepared as a result of the pilot.