26 March 2012

This morning, Gate 1 (Jarinje) was opened for commercial traffic as part of the overall process of normalising customs controls in northern Kosovo.

With this latest measure, both Gate 1 and Gate 31 are now fully operational for commercial and non-commercial traffic. In July 2011, Gate 1 was temporarily closed for commercial traffic as a result of the violent incidents which left the facilities damaged and in need of repair.

At both gates the controls are carried out by EULEX police and customs officers, in cooperation with their Kosovo Police and Customs counterparts. The customs clearance for commercial goods takes place at the Mitrovicë/a Terminal. Imports of excise goods, such as alcohol, cigarettes and fuel, will continue to be allowed only through the Merdare crossing point.

EULEX has an ongoing public information campaign with leaflets and radio spots to inform the local population about the procedures at the gates.