A major shift in international trade and logistics has officially begun. The gradual implementation of the European Union Customs Reform began on 21 September, introducing updated regulations and a highly centralised approach to goods entering and exiting the EU.

These changes will have a significant impact on digital reporting, e-commerce compliance and overall corporate logistics for business professionals, supply chain managers and foreign founders operating in Slovenia. Below is a breakdown of the most critical updates.

The New EU Customs Authority (EUCA) and Data Hub

At the heart of the reform lies the newly established European Union Customs Authority (EUCA), which was officially launched in Lille, France. Its primary mission is to support and coordinate national customs services across member states, with the aim of gradually eliminating fragmented, country-specific administrative systems.

To achieve this, the EU is developing the centralised EU Customs Data Hub. This new digital infrastructure will replace existing national customs IT systems and serve as a single interface for all EU imports, exports and information exchanges. The European Commission estimates that this will save member states approximately €2.3 billion in operating costs each year, while reducing the administrative costs for economic operators and businesses by almost €2.58 billion per year.

Major Changes for E-Commerce and Non-EU Shipments

The reform specifically targets the significant increase in business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce shipments from outside the European Union. In order to manage the soaring volume of individual parcels and cover the associated administrative costs, a new processing fee is being introduced for goods sent directly from outside the EU to EU consumers.

Importantly, this fee will not be passed on to the consumer at the point of delivery. Instead, it must be paid by the entity responsible for the standard customs duties. The European Commission will determine the exact amount of the fee, reviewing it every two years to ensure it aligns with actual processing costs. Member states must begin collecting this fee by 1 November at the latest.

Platforms Now Held Liable as “Importers”

In a move that will transform the online retail landscape, new rules stipulate that e-commerce sellers and digital platforms that facilitate the direct sale of non-EU goods to EU buyers must now be legally classified as importers.

These platforms are now strictly liable for the following:

  1. All necessary shipment data is provided to the customs authorities.
  2. We guarantee the payment of any applicable duties.
  3. Ensuring that all imported goods comply fully with EU safety and environmental legislation.

In order to operate legally under these new terms, these companies must either be established within the European Union, or officially represented by an entity based in the EU that holds Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) or trusted trader status.

Originally initiated in 2023, this ambitious reform aims to address the modern challenges of global e-commerce, enhance product safety across member states and significantly improve the efficiency of cross-border supply chains.

About Us

At SIBIZ, we are proud to be the leading provider of business migration and corporate and individual relocation services in Slovenia. We specialise in helping business professionals, corporate clients and individuals to navigate the complex landscape of Slovenian regulations and local administrative procedures. Our expert team is here to ensure your transition to Slovenia is smooth, compliant and highly successful.

For more information: www.sibiz.eu