European Integration and Customs Union

Abstract

In this paper we examine the European economic integration, which is considered particularly important, as it has progressed, to a large extent, affecting the functioning of both the national economies of the member states and the wider European, as well as the global economy. In addition, the study of European economic integration is particularly useful for understanding the course of the European project, as the field of economics played a catalytic role in the broader effort to expand and deepen the integration process (Maraveyas & Katsikas, 2016).
A customs union is a stage of multinational integration, in which the members undertake by treaty, on the one hand, the obligation not to impose on trade between them any customs duty or tax having an analogous effect and no quantitative restriction, but also the obligation to apply a common customs tariff in their relations with third countries (Tsinisizelis, 1995). Moreover, in the customs union, free movement applies to all products, of any origin, which entails the abolition of customs controls at internal borders. The good results of the customs union contributed to the completion of the common market and now there is no need for customs formalities for intra-European trade and all the complicated administrative documents have been abolished.
In order to create a real customs union, it is not enough to have a common customs tariff, but it is also necessary to apply it with the same rules in all member states. It is essential to understand that the realization of the customs union has also had remarkable results for the consumers of the member states, as it has greatly contributed to the welfare of the citizens of the member states, through a significant increase in better quality products at lower prices.