Q: What EU customs/regulatory database is of most use?

A: Regulatory requirements are changing all of the time, but a good place to start is with the EU Market Access Database – http://madb.europa.eu. Available in 23 languages, this database combines up-to-date information into one integrated system and is free of charge for European companies. The database provides a general overview of customs requirements for pharmaceuticals, providing:

• Basic information on import duties, taxes and documentary import requirements applicable in export markets, trade statistics and studies on market access related topics.
• Lists all trade barriers affecting EU exports by country and by sector.
• An interactive means of communication between business and the European authorities, allowing an exchange of information on-line.

Easy to use, with a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section and useful links to other reference websites, this information gives a general overview of requirements and can be combined with local knowledge via local contacts in the country of interest will ensure that you are up-to-date with regulatory requirements.

–Rognvald Lamb, EMEA Logistics Manager, Fisher Clinical Services