Saint-Martin reviews draft law on Customs Code legislative part
On March 4, 2026, the Executive Council of Saint-Martin convened to discuss the draft law ratifying an ordinance concerning the legislative part of the Customs Code. This review is part of the ongoing efforts to align local customs regulations with national and European standards.
Context and Background
The draft law aims to consolidate and update the legislative framework governing customs operations. This initiative follows the authorization granted by Article 36 of Law No. 2023-610, dated July 18, 2023, which empowered the government to reform the Customs Code within a three-year period.
Key Points of the Draft Law
The proposed legislation seeks to:
- Ensure compliance with the hierarchy of legal norms.
- Enhance the coherence and clarity of customs regulations.
- Integrate provisions related to indirect contributions and associated regulations, previously scattered across various legal texts.
Implications for Saint-Martin
As an outermost region of the European Union, Saint-Martin operates within the EU customs territory but benefits from specific exemptions due to its unique status. Historically, the territory functioned as a free port, allowing duty-free importation of goods. The draft law acknowledges these historical practices and aims to preserve them while ensuring alignment with broader customs regulations.
Next Steps
The Executive Council's review marks a critical step in the legislative process. The council's feedback will be considered in the finalization of the draft law, which will subsequently be presented to the national legislature for approval. Stakeholders in Saint-Martin are encouraged to stay informed and participate in consultations to ensure that the final legislation reflects the territory's interests and needs.