Germany's Customs Boosts Controls, Seizes Illegal Goods Worth €4.5M in Schleswig-Holstein
Customs in Germany plays a pivotal role in maintaining stable international supply chains. In 2024, they carried out extensive controls, including parcel post inspections and mobile unit deployments, to ensure efficient and legally secure handling of imports, exports, and transits. This resulted in a significant increase in the handling of goods in Schleswig-Holstein, reflecting high cross-border trade dynamics.
In Schleswig-Holstein alone, customs officers conducted around 7,000 inspections to combat black work and illegal employment. These efforts led to fines and administrative penalties totaling approximately 4.5 million euros. Nationwide, over 48,000 customs officers perform diverse tasks daily, contributing to Germany's economic strength, fair competition, and citizen protection.
Customs controls in international postal traffic proved crucial in preventing dangerous or illegal products from reaching consumers. The agency generates around half of the federal government's total revenues annually, underscoring its importance to the economy.
With the increase in goods handling in 2024, customs officers in Schleswig-Holstein strengthened their controls, leading to numerous seizures. Their vigilance ensures the smooth flow of international trade and protects workers from exploitation. Despite the absence of public information on Annalena Braasch as a press spokesperson for the Hauptzollamt Itzehoe, it is possible she holds this position.
