The Malta Customs Department yesterday celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the EU Customs Union through a number of initiatives, which included a book launch, a parliamentary sitting and a number of exhibitions.

The book ‘The EU Customs Union @50: Concept to Continuum’ is a compilation of 32 writings that reflect several aspects of the functioning of the Customs Union shedding light on its current and future dynamics.

The objective was to incorporate writings by people who may have touched different aspects of the Customs Union from within the European Union, third countries and International Institutions.  In this regard, the publication provides contributions and substantial suggestions for future developments and changes envisaged for the Customs Union.

The book addresses the knowledge gap that prevails, particularly among those who are not in direct contact with the Customs Union. The publication is aimed at providing light reading about a complex, yet interesting subject that somehow has a direct or indirect bearing on the European citizens’ way of life and beyond, while increasing the visibility of the Customs Union, the responsibilities associated with it and its benefits.

A parliamentary sitting was held after the book launch. It was addressed by a number of dignitaries, including Deputy Speaker Claudette Buttigieg, Finance Minister Edward Scicluna, Opposition spokesman on Finance Mario de Mario, Joseph Chetcuti, Director-General, Department of Customs and Philip Kermode, Deputy Director General DG TAXUD, European Commission.

A number of activities were held at Pjazza Teatru Rjal during the morning. These included Canine Shows, ZBV Scanning Demonstrations, a customs video game live demo and a walkaround in the Nuctech container scanner.

Photo: Alenka Falzon