EU begins implementation of new rules for inbound air cargo

THE EU has launched the second phase of its import control system 2 (ICS2) Release 2 import control system for postal operators, express and air carriers, and freight forwarders, reports PR Newswire.

 

This initiative was introduced last year and involves implementing new guidelines for all air shipments to or through the EU.

 

The ICS2 Release 2 is a large-scale project aimed at improving customs oversight of the movement of goods before they reach the EU's external borders, including air, maritime, land and inland waterways.

 

The EU has announced that the second phase of ICS2 Release 2 commenced on March 1, 2023, and includes new advanced cargo information and risk management measures to safeguard against potential security and safety threats posed by goods entering the EU.

 

Operators involved in transporting goods by air to or through the EU must provide a complete set of entry summary declaration data through the ICS2 system before they arrive at the external border.

 

The ICS2 system is gradually replacing the EU's existing import control system (ICS) between 2021 and 2024.

 

"Air carriers currently filing advance cargo information into the import control system (ICS) will fully phase out from that system as soon as they start filing this data into ICS2," said the statement.

 

"The second phase of ICS2 introduces new data requirements and processes to be complied with, prior to transporting the goods from a third country and before their arrival at the European Union's external border."

 

"Failure by affected economic operators to obtain the necessary data from their clients and to provide it to ICS2 will lead to actions by customs authorities to enforce compliance prior to and on arrival at the external border," said the statement.