The European Union (EU) operates as a single market, meaning goods, services, capital and people can move freely between the 27 member states without internal trade barriers. This creates exciting opportunities for businesses able to navigate the economic bloc’s complex trading environment.
The EU has a well-established regulatory framework that ensures standards are harmonized across all member states. Businesses must comply with these regulations to ensure product conformity and legal compliance.
Navigating this complex landscape of customs procedures, tariffs and compliance standards requires businesses to operate at a higher level of diligence and familiarity with frequently updated regulations.
Benefits of the EU
- Large consumer base – one of the world’s largest markets with over 447 million consumers, able to significantly expand a business’s customer reach
- Economic stability – a stable and advanced economy that is attractive to businesses due to its established infrastructure and financial systems
- Trade agreements – businesses within the EU can operate in multiple global markets through its numerous trade deals
- Harmonized regulations – products in compliance with harmonized standards and regulations can be sold in all 27 countries without the need for additional certification
- Innovation and research – a strong emphasis on innovation and research means companies operating in this market benefit from access to cutting-edge technologies, research facilities and a highly skilled workforce
Global trade relationships
The EU plays an active role in shaping global trade relationships. Changes in trade agreements, such as the United Kingdom’s exit from the EU in 2020, commonly called Brexit, can have major implications for businesses. It is therefore essential for international businesses operating in the EU to stay informed about evolving trade dynamics and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Technology as a catalyst
In the face of these challenges, technology has emerged as a powerful tool for improving efficiency. Businesses are increasingly adopting digital solutions to simplify customs procedures, maintain compliance and increase transparency in their supply chains. Utilizing advanced technologies not only facilitates smoother operations, but also provides a competitive advantage in this fast-changing trade environment.
Complex trade environment
Technological advances, geopolitical shifts, global events and changing consumer expectations have increased the complexity of foreign trade. Effective navigation of this international trade landscape requires a focus on adaptability, digitalization and sustainability.
Strategic partnerships and expert guidance
Businesses must form strategic partnerships, collaborating with logistics providers, customs brokers and consultants with expert guidance on the ever-changing regulatory environment to optimize business opportunities. To ensure smooth trade facilitation, they must be adaptable, committed to leveraging the latest technologies and keen to understand every regulatory nuance of the EU market landscape.
SGS solutions
We offer a range of customs services, including software, brokerage and transit, to help businesses trade in complex regulated markets, including the EU. We are a neutral partner, providing a one-stop-shop set of services that improve international trade by simplifying customs declarations and improving visibility and control. Supported by in-house software solutions, our services help to ease the pressures of customs compliance for our clients.
Services include:
- Clearance – full-service customs brokerage solutions for trouble-free import/export customs declarations. Benefit from 70+ years of expertise, with simplifications and advanced software to manage tailored customs procedures that fit your supply chain
- Consultation:
- EU fiscal requirements – combining customs and VAT expertise to create the perfect solution for any supply chain; can incorporate limited or general fiscal representation. Enables cash-flow advantages and reduced logistics costs
- Carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) – make sure your business is ready for the new requirements with our comprehensives for all aspects of CBAM, including report preparation
- Classification – correct classification limits the risk of corrections during a customs audit. Our solutions ensure compliance in your article database, helping you avoid the unnecessary payment of duties
- Prepare for authorized economic operator (AEO) certification – our consultants support companies during the application process and will support you in maintaining certification
- Customs audit support – expert support and advice during a customs audit
- Excise – whether you trade B2B or B2C, our tailormade applications ensure efficiency and compliance when declaring excise in the EU
- Transit – support in most common transit countries using e-Customs software that is connected to multiple customs systems, including NCTS connections in countries such as the UK, Türkiye, Switzerland and Romania. In addition, as Authorized Consignor in Türkiye, we operate a 24/7 authorized warehouse from which transit declarations can be submitted and started without the need to present the goods at customs
Find out more about our e-Customs solutions.
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