The AEAT modernizes its non-intrusive inspection system for more efficient and sustainable customs control through the Customs Control Equipment Instrument (CCEI) of the European Commission.

The Customs and Excise Department (DAIIEE) has launched an ambitious plan to modernize its non-intrusive inspection (NII) system as part of its mission to combat tobacco smuggling, counterfeiting, illegal trade, money laundering and fraud. Spain's geographical location, as a gateway to Europe and a strategic point for transatlantic traffic, makes this project a priority to ensure more flexible, mobile and efficient control at the country's borders.

A renewed and sustainable model: the NIICE project

In this context, NIICE is one of the key pillars of the modernisation plan, designed to strengthen the traditional functions of customs and significantly improve the control of goods and people crossing the external borders of the European Union. This initiative not only aims to renew obsolete equipment, but also to integrate and centralize both new and existing equipment.

Projects in progress and achievements

DAIIEE is currently implementing seven projects to centralise non-intrusive inspection (NII) devices, including high-energy scanners for containers, vans with backscatter technology, hand-held backscatter devices, low-energy scanners for luggage, scanners for pallets, medical X-ray devices and the MEGAPORT radiation detection system, distributed across different ports in Spain. These devices allow for thorough and less invasive inspection at customs, improving security and facilitating legitimate trade.

Results and impact of centralization

The centralization of these NII devices has allowed for unified control of key parameters, such as the use and operational status of the devices, fault detection and double verification of the images generated. In addition, the connection between the central node and all local customs facilitates a comprehensive analysis of each inspection.

The MEGAPORT system, in particular, allows real-time monitoring of all possible incidents, such as component failures (cameras, radiation detection portals, software and hardware) and alarm monitoring at a national level.

These nationwide projects provide a comprehensive view of what is happening beyond the local level, allowing image and alarm analysts to gain valuable experience in interpreting items entering through different customs offices in the country. This experience is essential to continuously improve the system and adapt to the challenges faced by customs control in a constantly evolving environment.

With the NIICE project and other advances made by DAIIEE, the AEAT reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the borders of Spain and the European Union with a more modern, efficient and sustainable customs inspection system.