The growth of the share of online trade requires the creation of comfortable rules of the game in the EAEU

The share of online trade is growing, it is important to create comfortable rules of the game in the EAEU. This was stated by Deputy Minister of Economy Alesya Abramenko at the XVII International Scientific and Practical Conference “EAEU 2.0: Transformations and Prospects of Customs Administration”, the press service of the Ministry of Economy reported.

Alesya Abramenko paid special attention to improving the customs legislation of the Union. Following many years of work, the first comprehensive draft protocol with amendments to the EAEU Customs Code was prepared, designed to simplify the processes of foreign trade activities for business, optimize its time and financial costs. Previously, amendments were adopted regarding the movement of e-commerce goods - this part is expected to fully work next year.

In August 2026, an agreement on electronic trade in goods in the EAEU was signed, which formed the basis for the creation of an all-Union ecosystem. If amendments to the Customs Code affect the import of e-commerce goods from third countries, the agreement is aimed at ensuring compliance with the rights and interests of participants already in the domestic market of the EAEU. The topic is especially relevant: according to expert estimates, e-commerce accounts for more than 20% of the world retail. According to forecasts, this figure will only increase in the coming years. In Belarus, the dynamics is also impressive: over five years, the share of online trading has grown by about 2.4 times. This indicates the demand for e-commerce channels, primarily from the consumer. Therefore, we expect that the innovations of customs legislation in conjunction with the development of the internal market of the EAEU will create comfortable rules of the game in this area, she said.

Alesya Abramenko also spoke about a number of other measures to improve the unified customs policy implemented within the framework of strategic directions for the development of Eurasian economic integration until 2025. Thus, the information exchange between the relevant bodies has been improved, which ensures the seamless functioning of the customs system of the Union. A mechanism for tracking traffic was launched in accordance with the agreement on the use of navigation seals in the EAEU, which created the basis for countering gray trade and accelerating the movement of goods. General principles and approaches to the establishment of criminal and administrative liability for violations of customs legislation have been formed.

According to Alesya Abramenko, the strategic plan for the implementation of the Declaration “Eurasian Economic Way” until 2030 also provides for mechanisms under which 13 measures will be implemented in the customs block.

They cover various aspects, from improving regulation to digitizing the customs administration of the Union. Issues related to the activities of customs authorities are also addressed in the sections on the disclosure of the potential of artificial intelligence, the implementation of joint measures to promote exports to the markets of third countries, she explained.

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