Article | 2.5 minute read
Talks about a new EU-US trade agreement are in full swing, yet people often forget that no formal, legally binding text exists. The White House did publish a fact sheet outlining the main headlines, but until a compromise is negotiated, approved and set down in EU and US legislation, the trajectory can still change in every direction.
Article | 2 minute read
In today’s fast-moving world of international trade, trust and efficiency are no longer optional – they are essential. As global customs regulations grow more complex and security requirements become stricter, businesses operating across borders must demonstrate their reliability and compliance. One powerful way to achieve this is by obtaining Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. Gaston Schul holds several AEO-licences, so we understand customs compliance inside out. We also work alongside our customers every day to strengthen their customs operations – and AEO status is a key tool in that transformation.
This year, Gaston Schul celebrates our 180th anniversary. The story of Gaston Schul is a testament to our enduring commitment to excellence in customs and trade. Since our founding in 1845, we have navigated changing landscapes, embraced innovations, and continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
In today’s increasingly complex global trade environment, businesses face a multitude of challenges that threaten the smooth flow of goods across borders. Fluctuating customs rules, sanctions, and trade disputes create uncertainty, often leading to costly delays and compliance risks. This article explores practical customs strategies to mitigate supply chain disruptions, drawing on the expertise of Gaston Schul, a recognised authority in risk assessment and customs strategy planning.
Article | 3 minute read
As global supply chains grow more complex and deforestation accelerates, the European Union is introducing the EUDR – a new regulation aimed at ensuring that products consumed within the EU do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide. As a major economy and importer of deforestation-linked goods, the EU is taking responsibility for reducing the environmental impact of global trade. Whether you’re an operator, trader, or business of any size, the EUDR marks a significant shift in compliance expectations – and it's crucial to understand what it means for your supply chain.
Article | 3.5 minute read
Any economic operator engaged in international trade inevitably faces customs regulations, preferential origin rules, and tariff structures. By reviewing and optimising internal processes, it is often possible to operate more efficiently within the legal framework – resulting in shorter lead times, less administrative hassle, and, in many cases, lower import duties for both the operator and their customers.
As we move through 2025, the global trade environment continues to evolve at speed – and with it, customs processes are becoming more complex, digital, and high-stakes. For importers, exporters, and logistics professionals, keeping up with the latest developments isn’t just a best practice – it’s essential. Here are 5 key customs trends still shaping 2025, and what your business can do now to stay compliant, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
As cross-border trade between the UK and EU continues to evolve post-Brexit, France is introducing a new digital requirement that will affect how goods are processed at its borders. Known as the Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire (ELO), this system is set to become mandatory from September 1, 2025, and is particularly relevant for businesses involved in freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and logistics operations across the UK–France corridor.
About 70% of Europeans regularly buy products online. In 2024, 4.6 billion low-value items (items under €150) were imported into the EU. This equals to 12 million parcels per day. This is double the amount of 2023 and triple the amount 2022. In 2024, 91% of these shipments originated from China, particularly from major platforms like Temu, SHEIN, and AliExpress. This exponential growth raised some important concerns.
