An information system for evaluating EU security risks

The company Aquasoft has developed a system for recording goods entering the EU. This system is one tool for assuring security throughout the entire EU customs area, and was developed in response to the amendment to the EU Customs Code that became valid on 1 July 2009.

The security amendment to the EU Customs Code brings customs control over trade with countries outside the EU within a single module for the entire EU. In accordance with this amendment, all member states must record in a uniform manner not merely goods entering the EU, but also persons active in customs proceedings. The Import Control System (ICS) and Economic Operator Registration and Identification System (EORI) have been developed for the Customs Administration for this purpose. The ICS system serves primarily for recording reports on goods that are to be transported onto EU territory. The EORI system, recording persons active in customs proceedings, was also put into operation at the same time.

“The principal aim of the project is to make the work of the Customs Administration simpler and more efficient with the use of electronic records. The records of all the member countries are now interconnected, enabling increased security of the entire customs territory and its population,” says Petr Franc, Managing Director of the company Aquasoft.

The ICS system is the first stage of the extensive e-Imports system, unifying import formalities in all the countries of the EU. The system is accompanied by an Export Control System (ECS) monitoring exports. The final element is the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS), which records goods in transit. The uniform electronisation of all customs agenda is crucial to the efficient sharing of data between the Customs Administration and persons making customs declarations.

The introduction of e-Customs systems in all the member countries provides significant support to EU security policy. “A comprehensive records system makes it possible to enhance security measures for the population and the environment in respect of, for example, dangerous and poisonous substances or materials that may be used for terrorist purposes or the production of weapons of mass destruction,” says Petr Franc in closing.