On 9 October 2026, FURS issued Instruction No. 7/2026 on the implementation of the electronic Bluefin Tuna Catch Documentation (eBCD) program. The instruction, effective from 15 October 2026, establishes the procedural framework for the use of the eBCD system for imports, exports, and re-exports of bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus). It replaces the previous Instruction No. 3/2019, which governed the paper-based Bluefin Tuna Catch Documentation (BCD) scheme. The eBCD system is an ICCAT (International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas) mandated electronic tracking system designed to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. All Slovenian operators involved in the trade of bluefin tuna must register in the eBCD system, obtain electronic certificates for each shipment, and submit them through the customs single window. The instruction details the data requirements, validation rules, and the roles of customs authorities, fisheries inspectors, and economic operators.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Electronic Certification: From 15 October 2026, paper BCDs are no longer accepted. Each shipment must be accompanied by an electronic catch certificate (eBCD) validated by the flag state authority and the ICCAT secretariat. Customs will reject declarations lacking a valid eBCD reference number.
- Integration with Customs IT Systems: The eBCD data must be transmitted via the EU’s Single Window Environment for Customs (SWEC) and linked to the customs declaration (SAD) using the new document code “N935”. Operators must update their customs software to handle the eBCD data flow and ensure real-time validation.
- Transitional Provisions for Existing Stocks: The instruction provides a 30-day grace period for bluefin tuna products already in the supply chain with paper BCDs issued before 15 October 2026. After this period, only eBCD-certified products may be placed on the market. Non-compliance may result in seizure of goods and administrative fines under the EU IUU Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008.
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