Dutch Customs has increased the financial guarantee threshold for certain excise authorisations from €2,000 to €5,000. This change directly affects businesses holding an authorisation as a (temporary) registered consignee (GG) or (temporary) certified consignee (GCG).
What is a financial guarantee?
A financial guarantee is a security provided to Customs to cover the risk of unpaid excise duties. The amount is typically based on the expected tax liability.
What has changed?
With the new €5,000 threshold, Customs may decide that no guarantee is required if the calculated amount remains below this level.
Previously, the threshold was €2,000, meaning guarantees were required more frequently.
Practical impact
For GG and GCG authorisation holders, this means:
- Less frequent obligation to provide a guarantee
- Continued responsibility to calculate the required amount
- Mandatory notification of any financial changes
- Need to assess whether a guarantee can be waived
Alignment with other authorisations
The new threshold aligns GG and GCG authorisations with existing rules for:
- Registered consignors
- Fiscal representatives
The objective is to simplify and harmonise excise procedures.
Important: responsibility remains with the business
While the change may reduce administrative burden, responsibility clearly remains with the authorisation holder. Incorrect calculations or failure to report changes may result in compliance risks or penalties.
Conclusion
The increase to €5,000 represents a simplification but also requires stronger internal controls and monitoring.
