Starting from July 1, 2024, significant tariff changes will come into effect, marking a major turning point in the European Union’s customs policies. These changes include the elimination of certain customs duties as well as the revision of autonomous tariff quotas, in accordance with Regulations (EU) 2021/2278 and 2021/2283.

Tariff Suspensions and Quotas

Tariff suspensions allow companies to import products not manufactured in the EU without paying customs duties. This measure is designed to facilitate the supply of raw materials needed for local production and to support innovation in Europe.

The products covered can be imported in unlimited quantities during the suspension period, providing significant flexibility to economic operators.

In parallel, autonomous tariff quotas apply to products available in the EU but whose production is insufficient to meet demand. These quotas allow the importation of such products in limited quantities without customs duties until the defined quota is exhausted. This approach aims to balance supply and demand while protecting local industry from excessive competition.

The aforementioned regulations have introduced measures to adjust customs duties for specific agricultural and industrial products. By eliminating customs duties for certain products that are either unavailable or insufficiently produced in the EU, the goal is to stimulate local economic activity and encourage the production of high value-added finished products.

These adjustments also aim to enhance the competitiveness of European industry by reducing import costs for essential raw materials and components.

Changes in Tariff policies

The aforementioned regulations have introduced measures to adjust customs duties for specific agricultural and industrial products. By eliminating customs duties for certain products that are either unavailable or insufficiently produced in the EU, the goal is to stimulate local economic activity and encourage the production of high value-added finished products.

These adjustments also aim to enhance the competitiveness of European industry by reducing import costs for essential raw materials and components.

Eligibility criteria

To benefit from these measures, products must meet several criteria. They must be raw materials, semi-finished products, or components used in the manufacture of finished goods in Europe. Additionally, the imported product must undergo substantial processing within the EU.

Suspensions do not apply if equivalent products are manufactured in sufficient quantities in Europe or if they already benefit from zero customs duties through preferential agreements or the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Furthermore, the products must not be patent-protected.

Role of the Customs
In France, the Direction of Customs and Indirect Taxes (DGDDI) plays a crucial role in defending the interests of French companies before European authorities. The DGDDI’s Trade Policy Bureau ensures the coordination and representation of national interests in discussions related to these tariff policies.

These tariff adjustments, aimed at making the market more accessible while supporting local production, represent an important step in the evolution of EU customs policies. Companies should prepare for these changes to maximize the benefits offered by these new provisions.