Consequences of the differences in digitalization between customs and business

Abstract

The existence of differences in the digitalization of customs and business creates difficulties for harmonized and effective interaction between them, which in turn makes it difficult to build a meaningful partnership between them. This issue was identified in a survey conducted among employees of the Bulgarian Customs Agency and representatives of economic operators. The lack of synchronization could lead not only to the inefficient execution of customs formalities but also to difficulties in ensuring the smooth conduct of international trade. Addressing this problem requires significant efforts, coordination, and investments to adapt to new digital realities and to ensure the effective implementation of customs control.