With the "Customs 2030" strategy, the BMF plans to modernise the German customs administration organisationally, structurally and digitally. The aim is to accelerate processes, strengthen the leadership structure, and safeguard the competitiveness of the economy. Especially in crisis situations, international trade flows, and the implementation of EU-wide regulations, prompt and reliable decisions are crucial. Businesses expect practical solutions, clear interfaces, and close involvement in the reform process.
Key Points at a Glance
- The German Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF) plans to modernise the German Customs system through its "Customs 2030" strategy, responding to global trade demands, changing security environments, and growing digital complexities.
- The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) appreciates efforts such as upgrading leadership roles, establishing a permanent situation and crisis centre, increasing automation, and promoting international cooperation.
- However, the DIHK is critical of proposals that could hinder operational processes or place additional financial burdens on businesses through higher charges.
- Overall, the reform approach is supported, but the DIHK calls for a practical implementation involving businesses closely and aligning with European reform initiatives.
Background
Customs administration plays a central role in international trade and the security of supply chains. Due to increasing digitisation, changing security policy conditions, and more complex trade processes, modernisation is urgently needed. The "Customs 2030" strategy includes, among other things, the merger of smaller customs offices, greater automation of processes, and the expansion of international cooperation. Additionally, the establishment of a permanent situation and crisis centre, as well as the political strengthening of the General Customs Directorate, are key focuses. Businesses should be able to respond quickly to changes while reducing costs and bureaucratic burdens. The goal is a modern, efficient, and business-friendly customs administration by 2030.
DIHK Demands
- Strengthen leadership structure and crisis management
- Political upgrade of the GZD president and establishment of a permanent situation and crisis centre (24/7) to enforce decisions across departments and accelerate crisis responses.
- Expand digitisation and automation
- Digitisation of processes, development of the customs portal into a "customs cockpit," "once only" principle, practical interfaces, automation especially for imports, and comprehensive digital platforms for business stakeholders.
- Ensure efficiency and uniformity in operational processes
- Merge customs offices only with sufficient digitisation, benchmarking between customs offices, unified decision-making processes, coordinated audits, avoidance of double burdens, and strengthened service orientation.
- Promote international cooperation and harmonisation
- Expand collaboration with EU Member States, the EU Commission, and BAFA, central clearinghouse for carnets, harmonisation of safeguard quotas, transparent data provision for businesses.
- Ensure personnel, training, and capacities
- Recruitment of skilled workers through independent degree programmes, opening up to career changers from commercial and logistics professions, promotion of comprehensive English skills, and resource distribution at local level to maintain operational performance.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Customs 2030" strategy?
A reform concept by the German Federal Ministry of Finance to modernise customs administration, digitisation, and enhance efficiency.
What are the benefits for companies?
Faster clearance processes, digital interfaces, better planning certainty, and reduced administrative burden.
Will fees for customs services increase?
Partially yes, but the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) demands transparent, practical, and business-friendly arrangements.
How are international requirements taken into account?
Through cooperation with EU member states, harmonisation of safeguard quotas, and integration of the EU Data Hub.
How can companies be involved in the reform process?
Via existing dialogue formats, project piloting, and regular consultations with customs administration.
Download
DIHK Statement on the "Customs 2030" Strategy (PDF, 176 KB) (only available in German)
- Relevant in topic:
- International Trade and Market Access
- Key areas:
-
- Customs
It has been translated with the assistance of AI.
No guarantee is made as to the accuracy or completeness of the translation.
Released 01.08.2025
Modified 18.08.2026
Contact
Steffen Behm
Director Customs