What will happen to SAP GTS after 2027 and why companies need to act now
By Emanuel Böminghaus, Legacy Systems Expert and Managing Director, AvenDATA
By Emanuel Böminghaus,
Legacy Systems Expert and
Managing Director, AvenDATA
Managing Director, AvenDATA
The end of an era: SAP GTS is being phased out
For many years, SAP GTS (Global Trade Services) served as the central system for international goods movement across numerous companies. It supported customs processing, export control and preference management, making it an essential part of global trade operations.
It is now confirmed that the classic version of SAP GTS will no longer be continued. With the introduction of SAP S/4HANA, support for the existing GTS will also come to an end. Companies still operating on the old platform must now decide whether to migrate or archive.
The new generation: SAP GTS Edition for SAP HANA
SAP has introduced a modern successor with the “GTS Edition for SAP HANA”. This version is closely integrated into the S/4HANA landscape and offers enhanced capabilities for automation, integration and cloud readiness.
However, the transition is complex. Data models have been changed, interfaces need to be rebuilt, and processes must be re-certified. For many companies, this represents not only a technical but also an organisational challenge, which can involve significant costs.
The risks of continuing to run legacy GTS systems
Operating legacy GTS systems after support ends carries significant risks. Security vulnerabilities remain unpatched, and legal requirements in areas such as customs, export control and embargo management can no longer be fully met.
In addition, many trade and customs records must be retained for years, for audits, foreign trade controls or customs verification. Without access to this historical data, companies risk compliance violations, fines and liability issues.
Archiving as a proven and secure solution
A professional archiving of your SAP GTS data is the most effective way to meet legal requirements while reducing IT costs. AvenDATA has already successfully archived numerous systems as part of the SAP GTS phase-out, including international environments with large data volumes and complex client structures.
All relevant information, such as export documents, customs transactions, communication logs and audit trails, remains accessible in the long term, audit-proof and GDPR-compliant. Once archiving is complete, the legacy system can be fully decommissioned, eliminating maintenance and security risks.
Conclusion: Act before support ends
The end of SAP GTS has been decided, and companies now need to realign their data strategy. Whether you choose to migrate to the new GTS Edition for SAP HANA or opt for an alternative solution, archiving your existing data is essential.
AvenDATA supports you in transferring your GTS data securely, transparently and in full compliance with legal requirements. With experience from numerous successfully completed GTS archiving projects worldwide, AvenDATA is a reliable partner for your business.
AvenDATA secures your foreign trade data for the future.