Question: What, in your estimation, will be the key focus for the EU when it comes to customs and global trade in 2025?
Arne Mielken: There are three important priorities for the EU. First, the much-anticipated revision of the Union Customs Code (UCC) is expected to dominate discussions. The proposed legislative amendments, based on the earlier impact assessment, will likely enter the negotiation phase in 2025, setting the tone for a modernised customs framework.
Second, the EU’s IT agenda remains pivotal. Major milestones like the full deployment of ICS2 Phase 3, further progress on the EU Single Window Environment for Customs, and ongoing enhancements to the MASP will shape the digitalisation of customs processes.
Lastly, the EU must remain vigilant in managing the geopolitical landscape, including issues surrounding Northern Ireland and broader trade complexities stemming from external challenges. These topics, among others, were central to our EU Customs Update earlier this year. We’ll continue to share insights on these developments through our platforms. Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? Click here to stay informed.
Question: With the third Brexit anniversary behind us, what will the UK do in terms of the border, customs, and trade in 2025?
Arne Mielken: For the UK, 2025 will be another pivotal year as the government consolidates its post-Brexit strategy. The EU remains the UK’s largest trading partner, and maintaining seamless trade remains critical. However, divergence from EU law is creating new friction points, which businesses must navigate carefully.
In 2025, the UK will implement the new Target Operating Model (TOM), which promises a revamped approach to border processes, including the sophisticated trusted trader schemes for veterinary and sanitary controls. The Northern Ireland Protocol, now adjusted through the Windsor Framework, will continue to demand attention to ensure smooth goods movement.
Further, discussions on updating the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) are expected to pick up pace. Collaboration on initiatives like the Single Trade Window and the Ecosystem of Trade will be essential to align technological solutions for international trade.
We’ll explore these developments in depth at our UK Customs Update 2025, a comprehensive training session for import/export managers and their advisors. Visit www.customsmanager.org to secure your place.
Question: What about the United States? What will CBP prioritise in 2025?
Arne Mielken: In the United States, CBP will continue advancing its 2021–2026 Strategy, emphasising combating forced labour, modernising the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), and fostering environmentally sustainable trade through its Green Commerce Strategy.
The Green Commerce Strategy aligns CBP’s trade mission with environmental goals, such as combatting illicit logging, wildlife trafficking, and unregulated fishing. By promoting green trade policies and infrastructure, CBP is setting an example for customs administrations worldwide.
In 2025, CBP will also focus on addressing emerging security threats, facilitating legal trade, and enhancing its climate resilience initiatives. This approach reinforces the U.S.’s leadership in modernising global customs practices.
Question: What does 2025 hold for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) across these regions?
Arne Mielken: In 2025, the EU will likely conclude major agreements, such as the EU-Mexico Association Agreement and the EU-Australia trade deal. Ongoing negotiations with India, Indonesia, and the Philippines will also remain a focus. The EU’s commitment to digital trade agreements is also expected to expand, as seen with Singapore and other partners.
For the UK, 2025 will mark further efforts to strengthen ties through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and bilateral agreements with India, Canada, and the GCC. The UK’s Secretary of State for International Trade will continue to promote international trade through additional Memorandums of Understanding and modernised agreements.
The U.S., meanwhile, will maintain its measured approach to trade agreements, prioritising enforcement of existing deals and advancing its green trade strategy.
Question: What are the most pressing global customs and trade issues in 2025?
Arne Mielken: Global trade remains fragile in 2025, facing pressures from geopolitical tensions, high energy costs, and inflation. The WTO must continue its reform journey to remain relevant. The rise of bilateral and regional trade agreements outside the WTO framework underscores the need for stronger multilateral trade mechanisms.
The WCO’s leadership in setting global customs standards, such as single window frameworks and digital customs systems, will also be crucial. Businesses must remain agile and proactive in navigating this complex environment.
Question: How will Customs Manager Ltd. support businesses in 2025?
Arne Mielken: At Customs Manager Ltd., we remain committed to being a trusted partner for businesses. Through our “one-stop-shop” approach, we offer:
Bespoke consultancy to solve unique trade challenges.
Leading industry education, including our new Diploma for Customs Competencies.
Market-leading trade intelligence to keep businesses informed.
Customs filing services to ensure compliance and efficiency.
We are excited to support clients in piloting new technologies like the EU Single Window and the UK’s Target Operating Model. On the education side, our courses focus on building real-world competencies, ensuring businesses are prepared for the challenges ahead.
Question: How do you feel about the future of customs in the EU and the UK as 2025 approaches?
Arne Mielken: The push towards e-customs in the EU and the UK gives me optimism. Initiatives like CDS in the UK and DELTA IE in France promise to simplify processes. However, businesses must actively engage to see tangible benefits.
The resilience of businesses navigating these changes gives me confidence. While challenges remain, 2025 is a year of opportunity to make customs operations more seamless and efficient.
Thank you for your time, and here’s to a successful 2025!
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