America’s Cup: all the planned customs simplifications
The certificate code 70YY and the digital ATA carnet, which have been in use since 1 June 2026, may be used in tax returns
Key points
Customs simplifications in the run-up to the 38th America’s Cup have been summarised in a Guide published by the Agency, which also draws on the experience gained from the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games.
Operational measures
The first simplification measure is the option to use the certified code 70YY in the declaration, which links operations for release for free circulation or temporary admission (procedures 40 or 53) to the event. With this code, customs procedures are expedited, with certain exceptions to the general rules. For example, in the case of temporary admission (the main procedure for non-EU goods intended for competition, with suspension of tariffs and VAT), the maximum duration of the procedure is 24 months, extendable only once upon reasoned request. The procedure is discharged through re-export, definitive importation, destruction, abandonment to the State or duty-free importation linked to a donation. Failure to discharge the procedure results in the payment in full of customs duties.
From 1 June 2026, the digital ATA carnet (eATA) is also in operation, governed by Circular 14/D of 27 May 2026. Carnets issued by Unioncamere can be applied for online and are saved in the digital wallet and presented at customs via a QR code. The traveller must present themselves at customs upon entry into and exit from the EU territory before the carnet’s expiry date. Without an ATA carnet, the application for temporary admission must be submitted via the CDS portal, accompanied by a detailed list of the goods. A guarantee is required, except where exemptions apply to accredited entities and to goods bearing the 70YY certificate.
Non-EU boats
Boats belonging to persons not established in the EU, intended for competition, are eligible for temporary admission by means of a verbal declaration, with exemption from tariffs and without a guarantee. Parts to be assembled in the EU, on the other hand, are subject to inward processing (Articles 256–258 of the Customs Code, now in Regulation 2026/2108, Articles 158–160), with the obligation to provide a specific guarantee. Entities accredited by the organising body may make use of verbal temporary admission provided they maintain a specific, constantly updated record.
