Customs coordination integral to EU-China trade

This year, the EU is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its Customs Union - 27 European countries in one single market of nearly 500 million citizens, where goods circulate freely. Merchandise entering the EU from outside is treated equally by customs from Ireland to Romania, in a fast and efficient manner. This makes the EU the biggest trading block in the world.

As the second-largest trading partner of the EU, China benefits from our Customs Union. It has a major interest in assuring the smooth flow of goods across borders. We share this objective. However, we also have to meet our citizens' expectations in relation to the benefits and risks that international trade entails. To face the dual challenge of facilitating legitimate trade while tackling security and safety risks, I am convinced that the EU and China have to work closely together.

This is why the EU sees customs cooperation with China as an integral part of our strategic partnership. This cooperation is progressing well, and 2008 is a crucial year if we want to make a real difference on three fronts.