The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is nearing the final steps in creating a unified market for electronic commerce. The Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) has given the green light to the draft agreement on cross-border electronic trade, which is now submitted to the EAEU members for the necessary ratification actions. The organization's press service noted that the document is expected to come into effect by the end of this year, ensuring equal and transparent conditions for Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. EEC Minister of Trade Andrey Slepnev emphasized that the main goal of this reform is to eliminate bureaucratic obstacles and create a predictable environment in which the rights of online shoppers will be protected at the level of traditional retail standards.
For entrepreneurs, the new agreement will open doors to the use of electronic document flow, reduce administrative burdens, and expand sales markets. One significant innovation will be the establishment of a network of bonded warehouses. This infrastructure will allow the storage of imported goods from foreign marketplaces on the territory of the Union without the prior payment of customs duties, taxes, and excise fees, as these payments will only be collected upon the actual purchase of the goods by the end consumer. The introduction of electronic trading operators will also take place, who will fully accompany the transaction—from order placement to customs procedures. At the same time, individuals will retain the right to purchase goods independently without intermediaries.
In addition to logistical benefits, the agreement will provide citizens with a high level of information protection, personal data security, and effective measures against intrusive spam mailings. An important technical aspect of the new system will be a unified customs declaration form, which is expected to be approved by the end of 2024. The transition to unified rules will not only provide consumers with a wide range of quality goods but also create a trusting economic atmosphere where trade freedom harmonizes with security issues.
