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Joint customs operations

What are joint customs operations?

The customs authorities of EU countries as well as some non-EU countries, in cooperation with OLAF, carry out regular joint customs operations with specific checks at European level. These operations are coordinated and targeted actions of a limited duration with the aim of combating the smuggling of sensitive goods and fraud in certain risky areas and/or on identified trade routes.

OLAF provides the necessary support for the relevant countries to conduct coordinated actions by means of its:

  • permanent technical infrastructure, IT and communications tools
  • strategic analysis, administrative and financial support

Results of the operations

These operations help to:

  • improve the effectiveness of customs services in conducting targeted checks at European level.
  • identify where the risks lie on specific trade routes.
  • protect the citizens and legitimate businesses by preventing illegal products from entering the EU
  • safeguard EU public finances.

Examples of operations