On 19-20 November, the European Commission's Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD) celebrated a significant milestone in the history of customs cooperation - the 50th anniversary of the European Customs Inventory of Chemical Substances (ECICS). This was marked with a celebration in Athens, simultaneously marking the 95th anniversary of the Greek General Chemical State Laboratory.
The database, established in 1973, has played a crucial role in facilitating the exchange of customs information between EU Member States, supporting the fight against fraud, and ensuring the smooth operation of the EU's customs union. Over the years, ECICS has evolved to keep pace with changing technologies and the needs of customs authorities.
ECICS, a database mainly for chemicals, has become a cornerstone for customs, laboratories and economic operators. Authorities are consistently working on extending its scope.
ECICS is part of the Customs Laboratories European Network (CLEN), which earlier in September, also celebrated its 25th anniversary. Since 1998, this network of customs laboratories aims to improve the detection and analysis of counterfeit goods and other illicit products. CLEN's expertise has been instrumental in supporting customs authorities in their efforts to combat fraud and protect citizens' health and safety.
The two systems have been supporting customs cooperation in the EU and have contributed significantly to the EU's customs union.
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Details
- Publication date
- 26 November 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union