Finance Minister Andrzej Domański made the case on Wednesday before the European Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee (IMCO), saying that the agency, known as EUCA, would “develop quickly and strongly” in Warsaw.
“EUCA aims to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness, build economic resilience and secure our borders. Poland shares these priorities,” Domański said, adding that advancing customs reform was a key focus of Poland’s EU presidency in the first half of 2025.
He pointed to Warsaw’s central location, proximity to land, air and sea borders, and ease of access from other European capitals.
“One of the proposed buildings is just 2 kilometers from the airport,” he said.
Domański also emphasized the experience of Polish customs services and the presence of Frontex, the EU’s border agency, already headquartered in Warsaw.
“EUCA and Frontex side by side will be more effective and create an EU border center, which we clearly need now,” he said.
Małgorzata Krok, Poland’s envoy for the EUCA bid, presented three ready locations in Warsaw, one of which is already operational.
She said Poland would offer EUR 13 million in financial support to cover the agency’s initial costs.
Officials also highlighted Warsaw’s quality of life, safety and modern public services.
“Ninety percent of residents feel safe here even at night,” Krok said, pointing to green spaces, healthcare, education, and public transit. “We even have 11 beaches," she added.
EUCA is expected to employ 250 staff, most of whom would relocate at least temporarily.
Domański described Warsaw as a “vibrant, young and dynamic city,” calling it an ideal location for a European customs body.
Poland is competing with Belgium (Liège), Spain (Málaga), France (Lille), Croatia (Zagreb), Italy (Rome), the Netherlands (The Hague), Portugal (Porto), and Romania (Bucharest).
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Source: PAP