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What is CBAM?

CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) is a tool developed by the European Commission to prevent the risk of carbon emissions relocation for specific types of goods containing embedded greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are imported into the EU. This mechanism complements the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) by applying similar rules to imports, while simultaneously replacing elements of the existing system that reflect the extent to which EU ETS allowances are allocated free of charge.

CBAM is regulated at the EU level by Regulation (EU) 2023/956, which establishes the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

What is the purpose of CBAM?
CBAM applies to the following high-carbon imports during its initial transition phase: cement, electricity, fertilizers, iron and steel, aluminum, and chemical products (such as hydrogen). Additional details are provided in Annex I of Regulation (EU) 2023/956.

How does CBAM work?

Under CBAM, importers of goods falling within the scope of Regulation (EU) 2023/956 during the definitive phase (starting in 2026) are referred to as authorized declarants. These can either be importers or indirect customs representatives who have successfully applied for this status through their national authority.

Authorized CBAM declarants are required to provide:

Contact information;
Main economic activity;
Proof of compliance with customs and tax rules over the past five years.
Who are the national authorities responsible for CBAM implementation?
The National Competent Authority (NCA) for CBAM is the Ministry of Finance.
Access to the CBAM registry is managed by the European Commission, but importers must apply through the NCA of the Member State where they are established.

What are CBAM certificates?

CBAM certificates ensure equivalent carbon pricing for imported goods, mitigating the risk of carbon leakage. To facilitate a gradual transition from the current system of free EU ETS allowances to CBAM, the mechanism is being phased in while free allowances under the EU ETS in the sectors covered by CBAM are gradually phased out.
CBAM certificates are transferred in the CBAM registry at the end of each working day.

How can our experts assist you?

  • Assistance in obtaining the status of authorized declarant under CBAM (drafting the authorization request);
  • Technical support for registration in the CBAM registry;
  • Assistance with preparing the annual declaration of activities from the previous year;
  • Guidance on calculating and verifying embedded emissions in goods;
  • Support for registering operators and installations from third countries.