26 February 2024
Introduction of PoUS
What’s changing? The existing process for managing T2L/T2LF union status certificates is undergoing a comprehensive revamp. The EU Proof of Union Status (PoUS) system, a centralized European information platform, is being introduced. PoUS aims to streamline the issuance and verification of Union status certificates, enhancing both efficiency and security for businesses across the EU.
Understanding PoUS: PoUS represents a significant shift in managing union status certificates. Currently in its testing phase, this innovative system will officially launch on March 1, 2024. PoUS is engineered to revolutionize the processing of these certificates, offering a more streamlined and secure approach.
Implementation phases:
Phase 1 - T2L/T2LF (Effective from 01/03/2024): This phase will see the replacement of traditional paper-based T2L and T2LF documents with the PoUS system.
Phase 2 - Customs Goods Manifest (CGM) (Planned for 01/03/2025): This phase will facilitate the request and verification of union status certificates for multiple shipments and goods.
Important note: Certificates obtained through PLDA or other European systems prior to the implementation date will remain valid. However, it's mandatory for all economic operators to transition to using the TAXUD's EU Customs Trader Portal, as this change is not subject to postponement.
How PoUS works: Upon submission of a T2L/T2LF application via the Trader Portal, Customs conducts a risk analysis and data evaluation. AEO-licensed operators will experience an automated validation process upon successful registration and risk assessment. Following validation, operators receive an MRN number, and their proof of Union status is securely stored in the PoUS database. Member States can then access this proof to confirm union status.
Printing your proof: Operators have the option to print their proof using the SRD function (Status Registration Document) for registered proofs.
API Integration: Currently, TAXUD does not provide APIs for operators to directly interact with PoUS. Requests must be submitted through the Trader Portal interface. Member States' customs authorities have API access to link their PN systems to PoUS, further enhancing the process's efficiency.
Future developments: Belgium is leading an initiative to simplify the request process further. Soon, operators will need to submit only a single request to cover multiple applications, significantly streamlining operations. This new functionality is under development and is expected to be available in the near future
EMCS 4.1 update
Exciting times are ahead for different customs systems. Mid February EMCS Phase 4.1 is making its debut, thanks to a collaborative effort between EU Member States and the European Commission.
13 February 2024
Dutch Yacht Builder Settles for €150,000 Over Use of Non-Compliant Timber
The Dutch Public Prosecution Office (OM) has reached a settlement of € 150,000 with a Dutch yacht builder for the use of Myanmar teak that did not meet the requirements outlined in Regulation (EU) no. 995/2010, or the European Union Timber Regulation, which was replaced by Regulation (EUDR - EU Deforestation Regulation) 2023/1115 (EUDR) in 2023. This timber was used during the construction of a superyacht.
1 December 2024
Staying Compliant: EU Guidelines on Avoiding Sanctions Evasion in Russia and Belarus
As Russia’s aggression against Ukraine continues with Belarus’s active support, the European Union has implemented extensive sanctions aimed at limiting the economic capacities of both nations.