Customs controls

What are customs controls?

Customs are primarily responsible for the supervision of international trade. Customs controls are acts performed by Customs to ensure compliance with the legislation governing the entry and exit of goods from and to customs territory. 

What do customs control?

Customs control, for example:

• duties and taxes to be paid, and the correct classification of the goods, their origin and value;
• security and safety requirements (counterfeited products, fight against terrorism, smuggling, etc.);
• compliance with environmental legislation;
• application of health requirements, veterinary, phytosanitary and quality regulations.

How do customs do that?

Customs may:

• examine goods, take samples;
• verify the accuracy and completeness of the information, and authenticity, accuracy and validity of documents;
• examine the accounts of economic operators and other records;
• inspect means of transport, carry out official enquiries and perform other acts.