Cologne (DEU), 10-12 September 2024
The 9th Customs Workshop took place from 10 to 12 September 2024 at Luftwaffenkaserne Köln-Wahn in Cologne, Germany. The event brought together 44 delegates from 17 nations, as well as key representatives from the European Defence Agency (EDA), NATO, the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), and Cybernetica.
The workshop focused on national challenges and lessons learned regarding the harmonization of commercial customs regulations with the doctrine and requirements of strategic military mobility. This alignment is essential to streamline and expedite military procedures.
In addition to national updates, the participants received insights from international organizations such as NATO, EDA, NSPA, and Cybernetica. Discussion topics included:
- Updates on the EDA customs program.
- Progress on the SDMMDS project, particularly the digitization of the European Form 302.
- National challenges regarding the legal application of Form 302.
- Obstacles to military mobility related to customs regulations.
In addition to strengthening collaboration, the workshop fostered trust and camaraderie with Attendees actively participating in discussions to enhance future collaboration and overcome national barriers. The excellent Networking opportunities during the breaks and social events offered valuable perspectives and fostered deeper connections.
The outcomes of the 9th Customs Workshop emphasized the importance of in-person engagement. As Chairman Michel Vink remarked in his opening statement, “Sharing experiences and knowledge on a working level” is more than just a slogan—it is a tangible goal that yields significant results.
The MCCE IST Cell and the Customs Workshop Advisory Group expressed their appreciation to the Canadian Operational Support Hub Europe for their outstanding hosting and facilitation of the event.
