At the onset of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced unprecedented challenges, severely impacting the ability of EU partner countries to provide movement certificates in traditional formats. The conventional requirement for certificates to be signed by hand, stamped in wet ink, or issued on specific paper formats became impractical due to the widespread restrictions and health guidelines necessitated by the pandemic.
Adoption of exceptional measures
In response to these challenges, exceptional measures were adopted to ensure the continuity and full implementation of preferential trade agreements. Customs authorities of EU Member States and partner countries were invited to accept movement certificates issued electronically. These electronically issued certificates featured digital signatures, stamps, or cachets of the competent authorities and could be submitted in either paper or electronic formats, including scanned documents or those available online.
This flexible approach extended to A.TR movement certificates, which are critical for the free circulation of goods within the EU-Türkiye Customs Union. Article 10 of Decision No 1/2006 provided the necessary flexibility, allowing A.TR movement certificates to be submitted to the customs authorities of the importing State according to the procedures applicable in that State.
Positive outcomes and future directions
The EU and Türkiye have acknowledged the positive outcomes of these exceptional measures. The successful implementation during the pandemic has demonstrated that electronic issuance of movement certificates can maintain the integrity and efficiency of customs operations. Consequently, both parties consider it appropriate to continue these good practices.
The move towards electronically issued A.TR movement certificates marks a significant step in modernizing and streamlining customs operations within the EU-Türkiye Customs Union. By leveraging digital technologies, both the EU and Türkiye are poised to enhance the efficiency, security, and resilience of their trade relations, setting a new standard for international customs cooperation.
