The European Union has formally agreed on a detailed and transparent procedure to determine which member state will host the forthcoming European Customs Authority (EUCA)—a new decentralised agency designed to modernise, support, and coordinate customs operations across the bloc.
The agency, expected to be established in 2026 and become fully operational by 2028, is a central pillar of the EU’s broader customs reform agenda. The reform aims to streamline customs processes, strengthen oversight, and adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape of global trade.
Nine Countries in the Running
A total of nine EU member states have submitted formal bids to host the new authority:
- Belgium (Liège)
- Spain (Málaga)
- France (Lille)
- Croatia (Zagreb)
- Italy (Rome)
- The Netherlands (The Hague)
- Poland (Warsaw)
- Portugal (Porto)
- Romania (Bucharest)
All nine candidates presented their proposals during a committee meeting in January, with Spain, France, Poland, and the Netherlands receiving the highest number of questions from EU lawmakers—an early indication of strong interest in their bids.
The European Commission has already completed its assessment of all applications and submitted its findings to both the European Parliament and the Council.
Why a New Procedure Was Needed
Historically, the selection of host countries for EU agencies has been politically sensitive, often lacking a standardised method. With customs management gaining heightened geopolitical importance—particularly after global tariff escalations initiated by the United States—the EU sought a more impartial, balanced, and transparent process.
The newly agreed procedure aims to eliminate ambiguity and ensure fairness among member states.
How the Selection Process Works
According to the draft procedure:
Step 1: Independent Shortlisting
- The European Parliament and the Council of the European Union will each select two preferred candidates independently.
- These selections will be revealed in a joint session.
- If at least one country appears on both shortlists, that country is automatically chosen as the host.
Step 2: Voting Rounds (if no overlap)
If the shortlists do not overlap, the process moves to up to three structured voting rounds:
- First Round
- A candidate must secure a majority in both institutions to win immediately.
- If no candidate achieves this, tied or top‑ranked candidates advance.
- Second Round
- Depending on the number of advancing candidates (two, three, or four), a three‑quarters majority is required.
- Third Round
- If still unresolved, a final vote is held requiring a two‑thirds majority, repeatable up to three times.
- If no candidate reaches this threshold, the requirement drops to a simple majority to conclude the process.
This multi‑stage system is designed to ensure both legitimacy and consensus.
Criteria for Choosing the Host City
The co‑legislators have agreed on several key criteria to guide the final decision:
- Ability to support EUCA’s operational needs
- Capacity to recruit highly qualified customs and trade specialists
- Accessibility and transport connectivity
- Availability of quality education for staff families
- Adequate labour market, healthcare, and social services
- Consideration of geographical balance within the EU [European Commission]
These criteria aim to ensure that the chosen location can sustain the authority’s long‑term mission.
What Happens Next
The final decision is expected before the end of the legislative procedure, with the winning host country set to begin preparations for the authority’s establishment in 2026. The outcome will shape the future of EU customs governance at a time when global trade dynamics are rapidly shifting.