On 14 September 2026, Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska presented a comprehensive reform roadmap for the Customs Administration during a dedicated press conference, framing the initiative as a cornerstone of North Macedonia’s EU integration agenda. The “Modern, Efficient and Safe Customs” program draws on the World Customs Organization’s Revised Kyoto Convention and the EU’s Customs Code (Regulation (EU) 952/2013), setting a target for full alignment by 2028. The reform encompasses three pillars: digital transformation of customs procedures, institutional capacity building, and integrity enhancement. The Ministry has secured IPA III funding of EUR 8.5 million for the first phase (2026-2027), which includes deployment of a Single Window Environment for trade, integration with the EU’s Customs Decisions System (CDS), and rollout of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program meeting EU mutual recognition criteria. Legislative amendments to the Customs Law and the Law on Customs Tariff are slated for parliamentary adoption by December 2026 to enable electronic submission of all customs declarations and supporting documents.
Key Takeaways
- Paperless Customs Clearance by 2027: The Single Window platform will allow traders to submit unified datasets for customs, sanitary, phytosanitary, and standards certification through a single portal. Pilot testing with 50 major importers begins January 2027, with mandatory use for all economic operators by January 2028.
- AEO Program Aligned with EU Standards: North Macedonia will launch its Authorized Economic Operator certification scheme in March 2027, granting benefits such as reduced physical inspections, priority treatment, and deferred payment guarantees. The criteria mirror EU Regulation 952/2013 Annex A, facilitating future mutual recognition with the EU.
- Integrity and Anti-Corruption Safeguards: The reform mandates rotation of customs officers at high-risk border crossings every three years, introduces automated conflict-of-interest declarations, and establishes an independent Customs Integrity Unit reporting directly to the Minister. These measures address GRECO recommendations from the 2025 Fourth Evaluation Round.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement