Greece and UK sign pact to combat smuggling and customs fraud

Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has entered into a strategic partnership with United Kingdom authorities to combat cross-border economic crime, smuggling, and customs fraud. The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) involving the UK’s HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the Home Office, and the National Crime Agency (NCA).

The cooperation framework focuses on several key areas, including coordinated actions against common threats, the exchange of analytical data and risk indicators to identify suspicious shipments, and the use of non-intrusive inspection technologies. To minimize disruptions to legitimate trade, the partnership emphasizes post-clearance controls and support for Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) to encourage voluntary business compliance.

Additionally, the two nations will engage in joint training programs, expert exchanges, and the digitalization of customs procedures. AADE Governor Giorgos Pitsilis noted that the partnership is essential for addressing risks that transcend national borders and adapting to rapid technological changes. The agreement also supports Greece’s customs modernization, including a planned container-targeting hub at the Port of Piraeus developed in conjunction with UK agencies.