In 2005 the European Commission determined the mission of the Customs in a common mission Statement. The Administration is responsible for protecting society and facilitating international trade through the management of external borders and by ensuring overall supply chain security.
The Customs and Excises Administration is committed to:
- ensuring the safety and security of citizens;
- protecting the financial interests of the EU and its Member States;
- protecting the community from unfair and illegal trade while supporting legitimate business activity;
- increasing the competitiveness of European business through modern working methods supported by an early accessible electronic customs environment.
To perform these duties, the Administration cooperates with other national and international authorities and law enforcement agencies to combat fraud, organised crime and terrorism in collaboration.
The Administration protects national financial interests by:
- collecting and controlling excise duties on imports;
- collecting and controlling VAT on imports;
- controlling the restitution of the excise and VAT on exports.
The Administration also has non-fiscal tasks that fall under the responsibility of other ministries, such as Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Public Health.