The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Belgium, in cooperation with FEB, BusinessEurope, Agoria, Essenscia, and Fedustria, hosted a high-level conference on April 14, 2026, focusing on the implications of the EU Customs Reform for businesses and customs authorities. The event brought together EU policymakers, customs officials, and industry leaders to discuss the shift from a declaration-based system to a fully data-driven model under the Union Customs Code (UCC). Key topics included the EU Customs Data Hub, the balance between facilitation and enforcement, the evolving role of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), liability and governance, and e-commerce. Participants emphasized the need for predictability, proportionality, and legal certainty for businesses as implementing and delegated acts are still being defined.
This conference builds on recent developments in EU customs policy. On November 13, 2025, Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič proposed the early abolition of the €150 duty exemption threshold for low-value e-commerce imports, aiming to reform the Customs Union and level the playing field for EU retailers. The proposal, which could be implemented as early as 2026 instead of the previously planned 2028, seeks to address unfair competition from low-value imports and enhance border protection. The ICC conference provided a platform to discuss the practical implications of such measures, including the removal of the de minimis rule and data reporting requirements.
Commissioner Jozef Síkela has also addressed related trade issues, signaling on April 10, 2026, a possible expansion of EU steel market regulation to include products like lift guide rails, and discussing safeguard measures for the European silicon metal industry. These statements reflect the Commission's cautious, evidence-based approach to trade defense, balancing protection for EU producers with adherence to legal thresholds.
The conference highlighted key cleavages between facilitation and enforcement, and between business competitiveness and regulatory oversight. EU retailers stand to benefit from reduced unfair competition if the duty exemption is removed, while consumers may face higher prices on small cross-border orders. Customs authorities face increased administrative burdens, but gain tools for better enforcement. The event underscored the importance of stakeholder dialogue in shaping the final regulatory framework.