Customs Crackdown on Construction Sector: Emphasis on Financial oversight by the Federal Government

In a significant move to ensure compliance and fair working conditions in the construction sector, the Focused Controls by Customs (FKS) conducted a nationwide focus control in Kiel, Germany, on June 16, 2025.

The FKS inspections are a crucial instrument in maintaining regulatory adherence within the construction industry, known for its economic importance and complex legal and collective agreement provisions. During the Kiel operation, nine customs officers checked the social security registration, fraudulent social benefits, work permits for third-country nationals, and minimum wage compliance of 32 craftsmen working on construction sites in the Neumünster area.

The FKS inspections are risk-oriented, focusing on areas where non-compliance is suspected. These checks involve linking, comparing, and analyzing various documents, including wage and financial accounting records. In some areas of the construction industry, special branch minimum wages apply, which exceed the statutory minimum wage of €12.82 gross per hour, effective from January 1, 2025. Agreements with employers that fall below this minimum wage are invalid and will be penalized.

Customs also conduct in-depth business record checks, especially of wages and financial accounting. During the Kiel operation, a violation of illegal residence and a suspected case of non-compliance with the legal minimum wage were found. These findings underscore the importance of the FKS inspections in reducing the social acceptance of black work and illegal employment.

The FKS inspections contribute significantly to securing social systems and state revenues. They help create a level playing field for all employers, ensuring fair working and competitive conditions. Customs conduct both spot checks and full inspections of all employees of an employer. In particularly affected branches, the FKS carries out nationwide and regional focus inspections with increased personnel.

For more information about the Main Customs Office Kiel, please contact:

Telephone: 0431 20083-1107
Mobile: 0151 52550103
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.zoll.de

By conducting these thorough inspections, the FKS is working tirelessly to promote a fair and transparent construction sector in Germany.

Customs Crackdown on Construction Sector: Emphasis on Financial oversight by the Federal Government