Montero endorses Malaga's bid to host the European Customs Authority

 

María Jesús MonteroThe First Vice-President and Minister of Finance, has presented the official candidacy in Brussels of Malaga to house the future European Customs Authority (EUCA)The Government defends the city's logistical and technical capacity to lead the comprehensive reform of the EU customs union.

 

The act, celebrated in the Permanent Representation of Spain to the European Union (REPER) In the Belgian capital, the event served to demonstrate the unanimous support of local, regional, and national authorities, along with civil society. Montero described Málaga as "the best candidate," highlighting a combination of factors that include technical and practical opportunities, as well as a "clear competitive advantage" based on quality of life, safety and top-notch infrastructure.

 

Strategic arguments of the Malaga candidacy

 

During her speech, the minister emphasized that choosing Málaga would not only benefit the region but would also contribute to strengthening Europe. The candidacy is based on Spain's customs experience, whose Customs and Excise Department (integrated into the Tax Agency) is recognized in Europe as a benchmark in modernization, digitization and management paperless.

 

Among the main assets that Malaga The following key points have been listed as being offered to host the EUCA headquarters:

• Geostrategic positioning: A prime location with excellent international connectivity.
• Economic and knowledge ecosystem: A "thriving" environment capable of attracting talent and technology companies.
• Excellence in public services: High-quality health and education infrastructure.
• Technical solvency: Proven ability to manage large volumes of international trade.

 

The election calendar and customs reform

 

The creation of EUCA is part of the customs union reform package approved by the European Commission in May 2023. This legislative proposal seeks to adapt foreign trade to current challenges such as the rise of e-commerce, artificial intelligence and the demands of environmental sustainability.

 

The selection process for the headquarters is rigorous and competitive. The following are the key milestones that will determine whether Málaga becomes the nerve center of European customs:

 

Date / Period	Milestone of the Process
May 2023	The European Commission approves the customs union reform package.
2st Semester 2023	Initial analysis of the legislative package under the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU.
Until January 8	The European Commission analyzes the options received and assesses compliance with requirements.
Early 2026	Defending the candidacies before the Council and the European Parliament.
February 2026	Joint voting and anticipated announcement of the chosen city.

 

Functions and structure of the future Customs Authority (EUCA)

 

The community proposal rests on two pillars: the creation of its own EU Customs Authority and the implementation of a EU Customs Data CentreThe EUCA will operate as a decentralized agency with powers critical to the integrity of the Single Market.

 

Its main function will be data management through the aforementioned Data Hubcoordinating the specialized knowledge currently dispersed among Member States. Furthermore, the body will act as the central interlocutor with non-customs authorities and coordinate operational crisis management, reinforcing the "strategic autonomy" of the European project in the face of unfair competition and fraud.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about Malaga's candidacy for EUCA

 

What is the European Customs Authority (EUCA) and what is its purpose?
It is a future decentralized EU agency that will manage the Customs Data Centre and coordinate national authorities. Its goal is to create a modern, robust, and transparent customs system to address challenges such as e-commerce and supply chain security.

 

When will it be decided whether Malaga is the chosen venue?
The final decision is scheduled for February 2026Before that date, the applications must be evaluated by the Commission and defended before the Council and the European Parliament at the beginning of that same year.

 

What competitive advantages does Malaga have according to the Spanish Government?
The bid stands out due to the city's geostrategic location, its connectivity, a booming technology ecosystem, and its high quality of life and services. Furthermore, it benefits from the reputation of the Spanish customs administration as a leader in digitalization.