Implementation Dialogue on Customs with Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič

Objectives

This first Implementation Dialogue on Customs serves as a high-level discussion between Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and key EU industry leaders from various sectors. In a changing geopolitical environment and in the context of the progressing EU Customs Reform, the event offers an opportunity for the Commission to ensure that stakeholder concerns and needs have been heard. A first comprehensive evaluation of the EU Rules of Origin is currently on-going. The input from stakeholder will be therefore timely and crucial to ensure that the rules are fit for the measures they accompany. 

Agenda

9:30-10:00 

Welcome coffee 

10:00-10:10

Introduction by Commissioner Maros Šefčovič

10:10-11:05

Session 1: Current challenges with regards to the use of Rules of Origin

The session will begin with a short introduction of the scope, context and timeline of the current evaluation on the EU Rules of Origin. Set within the current EU and international context, the participants will discuss concrete elements of concerns for the businesses.

11:05-11:50 

Session 2: Concrete ways forward to improve Rules of Origin

This session will examine possible ways forward. Participants can signal potential solutions to the problems identified in session one. The session will highlight both the most urgent solutions, as well as long-term visions for change.   

11:50-12:00 Concluding remarks

Participants

A variety of EU business and international trade and business associations have been invited to ensure a broad and balanced perspective. 

• Batteries
• Chemicals
• Fertilisers
• Textiles
• Pharmaceutical
• Recycling
• Automotive
• Metals
• Food/Beverages

Background

Rules of Origin (RoO) are an essential instrument in customs legislation. Defining the origin (i.e. “nationality”) of goods is, together with tariff classification and customs valuation, key to determine customs tariff treatment upon import and tariff preferences (if applicable).​ 

Rules of Origin can be preferential (defined in preferential trade arrangements to grant tariffs preferences) or non-preferential. Determination of origin is also necessary for the application of trade defence measures, quantitative restrictions, tariff quotas and sanctions. Moreover, recent times have seen a growing role of Rules of Origin for other environmental and economic policies (i.e. CBAM, Net Zero Industry Act).​