Europol discovers fraud of more than €1.2 billion in EU funds – Executive Summary

The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) found that last year, more than €1.2 billion from the EU budget was used to defraud EU funds.

In their annual report released today, OLAF investigators also discovered an additional €209 million that had not yet been misused, and closed 265 cases.

In addition to investigating the misappropriation of funds, the European Anti-Fraud Office has dedicated itself to dismantling networks of counterfeiters, uncovering customs fraud schemes and supporting EU trade defense measures, including support for Ukraine.

“The European Anti-Fraud Office also investigated suspected misconduct by officials or members of EU institutions,” the document highlights.

Over the course of the year, the European Anti-Fraud Office opened 190 new investigations and sent 309 recommendations to the competent authorities of the European Union and Member States. In addition, 79 cases were referred to the European Prosecutor’s Office for possible criminal prosecution.

In the customs sector, the European Anti-Fraud Office revealed attempts to misuse customs systems, evade anti-dumping duties, and fraud in the origin and valuation of goods.

Furthermore, the report highlights the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct within EU institutions, closing 44 investigations into unlawful conduct in the past year.

The European Anti-Fraud Office strengthened its cooperation network with international organizations and national authorities, and signed new agreements in 2023 with the United States, Ukraine and the World Bank Group. These global partnerships are essential to combat fraud that knows no borders.

“2023 was the year to combat fraud on all fronts,” highlights the Director General of the European Anti-Fraud Office, Phil Itala. “This report contains many examples of cases where the European Anti-Fraud Office and its partners have worked together to help protect the EU’s financial interests, citizens, the economy and the rule of law.”