The 10th Customs Workshop took place from 9 to 11 September 2025 at Hotel Bonalba in Alicante, Spain. In attendance were 46 delegates from 21 nations, along with six guest speakers representing Belgian Customs, the Norwegian Ministry of Defence, the European Defence Agency (EDA), NATO, the Dutch Ministry of Defence, and the SDMMS Project. With this record number of participants, the 10th edition marked the most attended Customs Workshop to date, confirming the growing importance and relevance of this forum.
This year’s central theme was Customs Non-Fiscal Tasks – SHEE (Safety, Health, Economy, Environment). National representatives presented their perspectives on how these aspects influence military mobility, highlighting differences and common ground. SHEE was also the focus of the syndicate work, where participants engaged in constructive discussions to deepen the analysis and propose practical approaches.
Alongside SHEE, the NATO/EU Form 302 remained a recurring topic. As in previous years, it generated lively debate, particularly regarding its implementation, the ongoing digitalization process, and the harmonization with national customs procedures.
In addition, participants shared national updates, exchanged lessons learned from operational experiences, and received input from international organizations and project representatives. Key issues such as legal challenges, procedural obstacles, and opportunities for enhanced cooperation were addressed in detail.
Beyond the formal agenda, the workshop reinforced cooperation, networking, and mutual trust. Engaged discussions, combined with networking opportunities during breaks and social events, fostered stronger professional ties and paved the way for improved collaboration.
Marking the 10th anniversary of the Customs Workshop, Chairman Michel Vink emphasized the importance of continuity and collective effort, underlining the motto: “Sharing ideas, Building Cooperation, Growing Together.” To celebrate this milestone, a commemorative coin was specially designed and gifted to all participants as a symbol of shared achievement and enduring cooperation.
