The ICS2 system and imports of goods by air transport into the EU: increasing safety and efficiency

The Import Control System (ICS) is a platform used by the European Union to monitor and manage imports of goods into the EU. In February 2023, the EU launched the second version of ICS, known as ICS2, which will gradually replace ICS between 2021 and 2024.

The purpose of ICS2 is to improve protection against security and safety threats posed by goods entering the EU. All air carriers, freight forwarders, express couriers and postal operators transporting goods by air to or through the EU must provide a complete set of Entry Summary Declaration data relating to the goods carried, before their arrival at the EU's external border. This data must be submitted through the ICS2 system.

Unfortunately, some EU Member States will not be able to connect to ICS2 Release 2 by 1 March 2023 and have requested a legal derogation. The European Commission has thus granted derogations for Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, France, Greece, Croatia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania and Sweden, allowing them to connect to ICS2 Release 2 by 30 June 2023.

Economic operators affected by ICS2 Release 2 who are not ready to connect to the system must request an implementation period from the competent EU Member State. In addition, they must be aware that there are penalties for non-compliance with ICS2. For example, customs authorities may refuse to release the goods and may impose fines.

ICS2 is an important part of the EU's efforts to protect citizens against security and safety threats posed by goods entering the EU. By collecting advance information on goods entering the EU, authorities can identify potential threats and take action to prevent them.

It is important that all economic operators involved in the transport of goods by air to or through the EU comply with ICS2 and request an implementation period if they are not ready to connect to the system. They must also be aware of the penalties that may be applied if they fail to comply with the ICS2 requirements.

Another important point worth mentioning is that ICS2 is a platform that provides transparency and efficiency in the process of importing and exporting goods. By collecting advance information on goods, ICS2 can help prevent fraud and trafficking in counterfeit goods, and help protect intellectual property.

ICS2 will also help improve the flow of goods within the EU, by eliminating unnecessary checks and reducing waiting times at the EU's external border. This will have a positive impact on the transport industry and will enhance the competitiveness of the European economy.