Our events

The Circle’s work takes various forms, reflecting its openness. Whether it be working group meetings, lunch debates, the General Assembly or the symposium, numerous events enable the Circle to shine. They provide opportunities for people to meet and exchange ideas.

01

Symposiums

Every two years, the Think Tank organises a symposium under the honorary presidency of the Director General of Customs. Each symposium brings together representatives of European and global bodies at the forefront of customs issues (European Commission, World Customs Organisation, World Trade Organisation, etc.). Its purpose is to enrich the debate on current customs issues, as well as customs principles and their effective implementation. Each symposium is preceded by a dinner in honour of the speakers.

02

Lunches & debates

Lunch debates bring together members of the Circle to discuss a topical issue with one or more prominent figures. These events provide a unique opportunity for open discussion between Circle members and guest speakers. The Think Tank organises several such events each year.

03

General meetings

The Circle’s general meeting is a special event, as it is for every association. It is very important for the Circle because it is followed by a lunch debate, attended by the Director General of Customs, in his capacity as Honorary President of Collin de Sussy. On this occasion, he shares with the assembly the results of the current year as well as the prospects for the development of customs policies conducted by the European Union, with the participation of national administrations.

“When I founded our think tank in 1990, I set myself several objectives. My priority was to create a group of women and men who respected each other’s opinions and were keen to share their expertise. And then we had to name ourselves. Find a name that reflected our identity. So Collin de Sussy became our reference point, a figure who, through his high office, exemplified the transition from the Ancien Régime to the Empire. From the last Farmer-General to the first Director-General of Customs, he would be our mentor. And so he became.

The Circle is committed to long-term excellence in its activities. Over the past 35 years, Collin de Sussy has demonstrated the relevance of its ideas, the freedom of its thinking and the quality of its work, without constraint or subjugation. Collin de Sussy is open to all. The renewed richness of its symposiums testifies to the richness of the exchanges that take place there.

I shared this desire with the friends who accompanied me from the outset on this exciting adventure. Without them, none of this would have been possible. I am so grateful to them.

Today, Collin de Sussy’s spirit is as vibrant and productive as ever. Changes in customs policies are an inexhaustible source of reflection and work, the relevance of which fuels debate.

May Collin de Sussy continue successfully on his already long and remarkable journey.”

Jean-paul bouquin

Founding Chairman

“I joined the association over 20 years ago. I still enjoy meeting up with members at events. The conference, which takes place every two years, is one of the few occasions when all customs stakeholders can come together to discuss a specific topic. I invite anyone who wants to take a step back and look at the subject from a different perspective to join us!”

Marc Brocardi

Partner at Brocardi Celse Associates

All our events

See our past events