CBAM now and in the future

In February, the European Commission proposed several simplifications to CBAM that will enter into force in 2026 at the earliest. The aim is to streamline CBAM regulations while maintaining the ambitious environmental goals.

Key changes are:

– Imports of CBAM goods not exceeding 50 tonnes per year are exempt from reporting requirements,
– purchase of CBAM certificates will start in February 2027 for emissions in 2026
– possibility to deduct taxes/fees paid for CO2 emissions in countries other than the country of origin; and
– simplifications in the collection of emissions data from third country suppliers, verification of emissions, and in reporting to authorities.

The 50 tonnes per year threshold is expected to exempt 80-90% of EU CBAM-importers while maintaining coverage of 95-99% of embedded emissions. The changes are welcomed as the obligations under CBAM have imposed significant administrative burdens on importers in particular small and medium-sized enterprises.

It is, however, worth noting that the current extensive reporting obligations will remain in force until the amendments enters into force. Compliance with the current legislation is still required to be granted authorized CBAM declarant status by 2026.

Svalner’s customs and international trade team continues to work with counselling and the CBAM reporting tool (BAMTool.eu) to achieve cost-effective compliance for importers.

Contact us for further information.