Significant improvements and simplifications in the customs processes for granting discharge of tender burden, in the context of diplomatic and consular relations, are introduced by a joint decision of the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance, George Kotsiras, and the Commander of the Independent Public Authority (20).

In particular, according to the relevant Joint Communication, the new provision provides for maximum quantitative limits for receipt, by exemption, products subject to Special Tax and Consumption Tax (such as coffee and replacement products) in the context of diplomatic and consulates.

The regulation is fully aligned with the forecasts of the new Customs Code and brings significant modernization of the customs process through a series of targeted interventions:

– Further digitizing the process and reduction of bureaucracy.
– Accelerating and facilitating the process of completing customs.
– Simplify the process of controlling quantitative limits and beneficiaries.
– Reduce the submission of support documents by the beneficiary persons.

The implementation of the new regulation expects substantial benefits, with a significant reduction in the time of customs – up to 60% for about 2,500 beneficiaries, improving the service of traders while enhancing customs efficiency.