Press Release: 40 years of Customs Union: Commissioner Kovács joins with the European Parliament to celebrate customs’ role in protecting citizens and facilitating trade

On 1 July 2008, the European Customs Union will celebrate its fortieth anniversary. In light of this milestone, EU Taxation and Customs Commissioner László Kovács was in Strasbourg on 17 June to participate in the European Parliament's session on 40 years of Customs Union. Over the past 4 decades, customs have played a crucial role in the development of the European Community: without efficient customs control at the EU's external borders, the Single Market would never have been possible. Customs not only facilitate trade and ensure the protection of European industry but they prevent a flood of unsafe or counterfeit goods, which can endanger citizens' health and safety, from entering the EU. Customs also keep close control of the movement of chemicals which can be misused and transformed into harmful drugs and prevent illegal imports of animals which are internationally protected animals and or could introduce disease.