Do you import CBAM goods? Make sure that your imports are not blocked in 2026
From the beginning of 2026, you can only import CBAM goods weighing more than 50 tonnes per calendar year if you have the status of authorised CBAM declarant. The threshold value concerns CBAM goods, which are imported into the customs territory of the EU (and released for free circulation).
Apply for the authorisation in time. The authorisation application must be pending at Customs by 31 March 2026.
Monitor the threshold value yourself – apply for an authorisation if needed
As an importer, you must monitor when the 50-tonne threshold is exceeded. If necessary, apply for the authorised CBAM declarant status in advance if the threshold value is about to be exceeded. Note the following when monitoring the threshold value:
- If the importer exceeds the annual 50-tonne threshold, the CBAM obligations will apply to all imports of CBAM goods during the calendar year including the goods imported before the threshold was exceeded.
- The threshold does not apply to imports of electricity and hydrogen. Instead, the CBAM obligations concern electricity and hydrogen regardless of the quantity of imports.
If the import doesn’t exceed the threshold in a calendar year, you don’t need the authorised CBAM declarant status.
Unauthorised import is prohibited
If the importer of CBAM goods doesn’t have the authorised CBAM declarant status and the threshold value has been exceeded, Customs will prevent the import of CBAM goods. CBAM goods can’t be released for free circulation before the importer has been granted the authorised CBAM declarant status. Please note that the maximum processing time for an authorisation application is 120 days according to the legislation.
If you don’t have the required authorisation, proceed for instance as follows:
- You can place goods in a warehouse or storage facility for undeclared goods for a specified period in return for payment. Read more about warehousing goods.
- Alternatively, the goods can be placed under a customs procedure other than release for free circulation. Read more about import from outside the EU.
- The goods can also be returned to the consignor.
Unauthorised import leads to sanctions.