European IT system customs considerably delayed

luxembourg - The introduction of new IT systems for customs services in the EU is experiencing significant delays. The 2020 deadline will not be met and may have to be moved up to 2025, reports the European Court of Auditors in a report.

The delays are mainly due to changes in projects, too little money and syrupy decision-making. According to the inspectors, the European Commission did not report enough on this.

The EU has been working on the modernization of customs for fifteen years. In the period from 2014 to 2020, 523 million euros will be available to buy, develop and maintain systems at EU level. Member States are vigilant for the development and costs of national systems.

A large part of the customs duties flows to the European budget. Last year it was more than 20 billion, or 15 percent of the budget. 'The digitization and modernization of customs processes is of crucial importance for the EU', says audit member Eva Lindström. 'They must help the EU to operate as a large-scale trading block, benefit economic activity and growth and increase the safety and security of EU citizens. '