The agreement on establishing a unified customs transit system between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and third countries entered into force on June 29. This new mechanism aims to enhance the security and transparency of international freight transport while simplifying cross-border trade procedures.
Developed with international best practices in mind, the system establishes a new level of cooperation between the customs authorities of EAEU member states and interested countries outside the union. Its implementation will enable more efficient administration of transit operations, reduce business costs associated with cargo delivery, and create conditions for the seamless movement of goods across the Eurasian region. Other non-EAEU states will be able to join the system in the future.
A key element of the new model is the integration of customs service information systems to facilitate the exchange of data regarding transit declarations, inspection results, and shipment status. All participants will use a unified transit declaration with a standardized format. Furthermore, the agreement provides for the use of electronic navigation seals and the mutual recognition of customs control results. According to Sergey Shklyaev, Minister for Customs Cooperation at the Eurasian Economic Commission, the new system will make transport routes through EAEU territory more attractive and create additional opportunities for trade participants to access new markets.