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Authorized economic operator

An Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a status granted by customs authorities to businesses and other parties involved in the international movement of goods, recognizing their compliance with predefined supply chain security standards established by the World Customs Organization (WCO).^[1] This designation fosters partnerships between customs administrations and economic operators to enhance global trade security while streamlining legitimate commerce through benefits such as reduced inspections, priority processing, and simplified procedures.^[2] Originating from the WCO's Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework), adopted in 2005 and operationalized in 2007, the AEO program addresses post-9/11 security concerns by promoting risk-based customs controls across the supply chain.^[1] The AEO framework is built on three pillars—Customs-to-Customs cooperation, Customs-to-Business partnerships, and Customs-to-other Government Agencies collaboration—enabling mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) that allow AEO-certified entities to enjoy reciprocal benefits across participating countries.^[1] In the European Union, implemented since 2008 under the Union Customs Code (Article 39), AEO status is available to EU-established traders with an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number and comes in three variants: AEOC for customs simplifications, AEOS for security and safety, and a combined AEOC/AEOS.^[2] Eligibility requires meeting stringent criteria, including full compliance with customs and taxation rules, no serious criminal infringements or debts, maintenance of accurate records, financial solvency, and implementation of robust internal security measures.^[2] Globally, AEO programs vary by jurisdiction but align with WCO standards; for instance, the United States' Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) serves as its equivalent, with MRAs extending benefits to AEO partners from countries like Canada, Mexico, and others in Europe and Asia.^[3] Key advantages for certified operators include fewer physical and documentary controls, faster clearance times, improved business reputation, and resilience during trade disruptions, while customs authorities benefit from better resource allocation and enhanced overall supply chain integrity.^[2] As of 2024, over 18,000 entities hold EU AEO status, underscoring the program's role in facilitating billions in annual trade volume.^[2]

Overview

Definition

An Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a party involved in the international movement of goods, approved by a national customs administration as complying with World Customs Organization (WCO) or equivalent supply chain security standards.^[4] This approval recognizes the party's commitment to secure and reliable practices throughout the global trade chain. Qualifying parties include manufacturers, importers, exporters, brokers, carriers, consolidators, intermediaries, ports, airports, terminal operators, integrated operators, warehouses, distributors, and freight forwarders.^[4] The scope of AEO status extends to a broad range of role players and cargo owners within the international supply chain, encompassing entities that handle goods from production to final delivery.^[1] Unlike general traders, AEO certification is a voluntary program that distinguishes participants through verified compliance with security protocols, financial solvency, and record-keeping standards, thereby granting them trusted partner status with customs authorities.^[4] In the 2025 edition of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, a key clarification emphasizes inclusivity by fostering greater participation from micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in AEO programs, tailoring requirements to their operational scale and recognizing their integration into larger certified supply chains for enhanced risk management.^[4] This update promotes broader access to trade facilitation benefits, such as expedited customs clearance for MSMEs acting as exporters or importers.^[4]

Purpose

The primary goals of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program are to secure the international supply chain against risks such as terrorism and smuggling while facilitating legitimate trade through expedited customs processes for compliant entities.^[2] As a partnership between customs administrations and businesses, the program identifies reliable operators who meet stringent compliance standards, thereby enabling targeted risk management that protects global trade flows without unduly hindering economic activity.^[1] This approach stems from the World Customs Organization's (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, which emphasizes pre-certification of supply chain partners to mitigate illicit threats.^[5] The program strikes a balance between enhanced security and trade facilitation by rewarding verified compliance with streamlined procedures, which in turn reduces border delays and boosts overall economic efficiency for legitimate operators.^[6] This dual focus allows customs authorities to allocate resources more effectively toward high-risk shipments, fostering a more predictable and cost-effective trading environment that supports international commerce.^[2] On a broader scale, the AEO initiative promotes enduring partnerships between customs authorities and the private sector, building mutual trust and cooperation essential for resilient global trade networks.^[1] It aligns closely with international trade objectives, including those outlined in the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), particularly Article 7.7 on authorized operators, which encourages simplified procedures for compliant traders to lower trade costs and enhance market access.^[7] In 2025, the program has seen increased emphasis on bolstering supply chain resilience amid emerging threats, such as disruptions from geopolitical events, as evidenced by the September publication of the SAFE Framework, which introduces provisions on trade continuity and resumption, and mutual recognition agreements such as the EU-Canada AEO pact, which entered into force on August 1, 2025, to enhance security and efficiency amid global uncertainties. A November 2025 WCO report further underscores efforts to integrate micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) into AEO programs for greater inclusivity and trade participation.^[8]^[9]^[10]

Development and Framework

Historical Background

The concept of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) emerged in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, which heightened global concerns over supply chain vulnerabilities and prompted international efforts to enhance trade security. In response to these events and United Nations Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001), which called for measures to prevent the financing and facilitation of terrorism, the World Customs Organization (WCO) began developing standards to secure international trade while facilitating legitimate commerce.^[11]^[12] The AEO idea was first referenced in WCO discussions during 2005, aligning with broader post-9/11 security reforms, and was formally incorporated into the WCO's Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework), adopted by the WCO Council in June 2005.^[13] Detailed guidelines for AEO programs followed in June 2006, establishing baseline criteria for trusted traders.^[14] Key milestones in the AEO's evolution include its full adoption within the SAFE Framework in 2007, which outlined mutual recognition and partnership principles.^[15] The framework underwent significant revisions, with a 2010 SAFE Package compiling implementation tools to support global rollout. Further updates in 2018 incorporated lessons from early adoptions, emphasizing risk management and business partnerships, while the 2025 edition introduced provisions for digital integration to streamline validations and expanded access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through simplified criteria.^[4]^[16] These developments reflect the AEO's adaptation to evolving threats, including cyber risks and supply chain disruptions. Global adoption accelerated following early implementations, with the European Union launching its AEO program on January 1, 2008, as part of the Modernized Customs Code.^[17] In the United States, alignment occurred through the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), launched in 2001 and harmonized with WCO standards by 2007 to enable mutual recognition.^[18] By 2025, over 100 countries had operational AEO programs or equivalents, driven by WCO capacity-building initiatives and bilateral agreements, marking a shift from security-focused origins to inclusive trade facilitation.^[19]^[20]

WCO SAFE Framework

The World Customs Organization's (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards (SAFE FoS) is a voluntary international instrument adopted in June 2005 to promote security and facilitation in the global supply chain. Revised in September 2025 to respond to evolving threats and technological advancements, it outlines standards structured across three pillars: Customs-to-Customs cooperation, Customs-to-Business partnerships, and Customs-to-other Government Agencies collaboration. These pillars collectively aim to balance robust security measures with efficient trade processes, enabling customs administrations to target high-risk consignments while expediting low-risk ones.^[13]^[4]^[9] The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program is integrated primarily within Pillar 2, Customs-to-Business partnerships, which leverages risk management to foster trusted partnerships between customs authorities and compliant businesses. This pillar addresses key aspects of AEO implementation, including establishing partnerships for information sharing, implementing security measures for supply chain integrity, granting authorizations to verified operators, deploying technology for efficient monitoring, enhancing communication protocols, and providing facilitation benefits such as reduced inspections.^[4] Among the AEO-related standards, mutual recognition of AEO authorizations across borders is emphasized to ensure consistent benefits and controls, while risk management is underpinned by requirements for automated systems and intelligence sharing to classify operators as low-risk. The 2025 revision expanded these standards with provisions for inter-agency cooperation, such as coordination with environmental authorities to address sustainability risks in trade, and enhancements to data quality standards, including validation of electronic submissions for accuracy and timeliness.^[4]^[9] Annexes to the SAFE FoS provide operational guidance for AEO programs, with Annex IV offering detailed recommendations on program design, including criteria for initial validation, ongoing monitoring, and periodic reviews to maintain security and compliance. This annex supports uniform implementation by outlining processes for auditing business operations and revoking status if standards are not met.^[4]

Certification Process

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification under the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework, businesses must meet core criteria that ensure reliability and compliance. These include maintaining a satisfactory record of compliance with customs requirements, with no serious or repeated infringements of customs, taxation, or other relevant legislation over a period typically set at three years by national programs. Additionally, operators must demonstrate robust systems for record-keeping and accounting that allow for accurate, timely, and verifiable documentation, enabling customs audits of import and export activities. Financial viability is required, evidenced by proof of solvency or good financial standing sufficient to fulfill business commitments based on the operator's model. Proven supply chain security forms another pillar, involving a demonstrated commitment to protecting the integrity of goods throughout international trade movements.^[21] Security-specific requirements emphasize comprehensive measures across key areas to mitigate risks in the supply chain. For cargo, operators must implement procedures to preserve integrity, such as using ISO-compliant seals, inspecting conveyances, and reconciling shipments with documentation. Premises security involves access controls, lighting, alarms, and perimeter monitoring to prevent unauthorized entry. Personnel measures include background screening for security-related offenses, identification protocols, and periodic checks, with access revoked for terminated employees. Business partners must adhere to equivalent security standards, encouraged through contractual arrangements and pre-agreement reviews. Internal risk management programs are essential, requiring regular security risk assessments, self-audits, and documented mitigation strategies to identify and address vulnerabilities.^[21] Additional factors support operational excellence and long-term adherence. Staff must receive adequate training on supply chain threats, cargo integrity, and risk identification, with records maintained to verify ongoing education efforts. A commitment to voluntary compliance is fundamental, positioning AEO participation as a partnership with customs authorities focused on continuous improvement. For micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the 2025 SAFE Framework updates introduce simplified or tailored criteria, such as flexible, risk-based security plans adapted to smaller business models, to enhance accessibility and facilitate their integration into AEO programs.^[21] While criteria must align with WCO SAFE standards—particularly Pillar 2 on Customs control and compliance—national adaptations are permitted to reflect local contexts. For instance, in the European Union, AEO eligibility under Article 39 of the Union Customs Code requires no serious infringements, appropriate record-keeping for internal controls, financial solvency, and compliance with security and safety standards, ensuring uniform yet adaptable application across member states.^[22]

Application and Validation

The application process for Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status is voluntary and begins with a self-assessment by the applicant economic operator, who evaluates compliance with criteria such as supply chain security, financial viability, and record of customs compliance using tools like the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) outlined in the WCO SAFE Framework.^[23] This self-assessment must be supported by evidence, including internal controls, security measures, and financial statements from the past three years, before submitting an application form signed by a legal representative to the national customs authority.^[23] Customs then conducts an initial review, which may involve requesting additional documentation or a risk analysis based on the applicant's supply chain role and size, with eligibility criteria serving as prerequisites for proceeding.^[23] Validation follows the initial review and employs a range of methods to verify the applicant's adherence to AEO standards, primarily through on-site audits conducted by customs officials or authorized third parties to inspect facilities, security protocols, and operational processes.^[23] These audits include interviews with personnel, document reviews, and observations of security measures such as access controls and risk management systems, often adopting a phased approach for complex supply chains to address vulnerabilities step-by-step.^[23] Virtual or hybrid validation options, utilizing video calls and remote data exchange, may supplement on-site efforts, particularly for distant or low-risk applicants, ensuring transparency and efficiency while aligning with international standards like ISO 28001.^[23] Upon successful validation, AEO certification is typically granted for a duration of three years, subject to annual compliance checks by customs to monitor ongoing adherence through spot inspections, key performance indicators, and financial reassessments.^[24] Revalidation occurs at the end of the period or upon triggers like legislative changes or detected non-compliance, with provisions for suspension or revocation if breaches in security, solvency, or customs rules are identified.^[23] In 2025, enhancements to the WCO SAFE Framework introduced digital tools for streamlined applications, including electronic submission via single window systems and interoperable data exchange using the WCO Data Model, reducing paperwork and processing times.^[21] Additionally, simplified validation guidelines were implemented to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), offering tailored flexibility in self-assessments and risk-based audits to encourage broader participation without compromising security standards.^[21]

Global Implementation

Regional and National Programs

The implementation of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs varies regionally, adapting the WCO SAFE Framework to local trade dynamics and regulatory environments. In the European Union, AEO status has been harmonized across all member states under the Union Customs Code since 2016, providing a unified certification that ensures seamless recognition and benefits like reduced inspections throughout the single market.^[2] This approach emphasizes compliance with customs and security standards, reflecting widespread adoption among importers, exporters, and logistics providers.^[2] In the Asia-Pacific region, APEC facilitates AEO programs across 21 member economies, promoting convergence in standards to enhance supply chain security and trade facilitation.^[25] These initiatives focus on mutual recognition to support regional integration, with programs operational in economies such as Australia, China, Japan, and Singapore. In Africa, AEO alignments are advancing through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), where WCO-supported efforts aim to standardize customs procedures and boost intra-continental trade, building on fully operational programs in eight countries and compliance initiatives in 12 others.^[6] Nationally, approximately 100 countries have implemented AEO programs as of 2025, aligning with the WCO SAFE Framework while tailoring elements to address local risks, such as enhanced financial solvency checks in regions prone to corruption.^[19] These adaptations ensure programs remain relevant to domestic priorities, including risk-based validations and integration with national trade policies. Inclusivity efforts have gained momentum in 2025, with a global push to incorporate micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through simplified criteria and outreach, highlighted by the joint WCO-WTO-ICC study report on integrating MSMEs into AEO programs; for instance, India's AEO program offers tiered certifications (T1, T2, T3) with progressive benefits like reduced bank guarantees and faster processing.^[26]^[27]

Examples of AEO Programs

The European Union's Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, implemented since 2008, offers three types of certification: AEOC for customs simplifications, AEOS for security and safety, and a comprehensive AEOC/AEOS combining both.^[2] These certifications provide benefits such as fewer controls on goods, priority treatment during inspections, and simplified customs procedures, including waivers for comprehensive guarantees in some cases.^[2] The programme is managed by national customs authorities across EU member states, with status granted in one country recognized throughout the Union, fostering a unified approach to supply chain security and trade facilitation.^[2] In the United States, the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) serves as a key AEO-aligned initiative, launched as a voluntary partnership in November 2001 following the September 11 attacks.^[28] It focuses primarily on enhancing supply chain security against terrorism and smuggling, requiring partners to implement specific security measures and conduct self-assessments.^[28] As of 2025, CTPAT includes over 11,400 certified members across importers, exporters, carriers, and other trade entities, who benefit from reduced examinations at ports of entry and mutual recognition with international AEO programmes.^[28] China's AEO programme, established in 2008, features two main tiers: General Certified Enterprises (GE) for basic compliance and Advanced Certified Enterprises (ACE) for higher standards, with escalating benefits tied to enterprise credit classifications (AA, A, and B levels).^[29] ACEs, numbering around 3,000, handle over 33% of China's import/export volume and enjoy 49 joint incentive measures, including green-lane expedited clearance, reduced inspections, priority intellectual property services, and simplified documentation.^[29] These privileges extend to faster tax rebates (reduced from 15 to 5 days) and enhanced financing access, promoting dynamic supervision where non-compliance can lead to status revocation.^[29] The United Kingdom's post-Brexit AEO programme, effective from January 2021, inherits the EU model while adapting to domestic needs, maintaining AEOC for customs simplifications and AEOS for security.^[30] It offers benefits like faster clearance, lower risk scores for declarations, and reduced deferment account guarantees (up to 70% for Northern Ireland traders), with mutual recognition extended to partners including the EU, US, and China.^[30] Japan's Authorized Economic Operator system, integrated into its customs framework since 2006, emphasizes operational efficiency through digital tools and streamlined procedures for certified importers, exporters, and warehouse operators.^[31] Participants must maintain robust compliance programmes, including internal audits and security protocols, gaining benefits such as prioritized customs processing and reduced documentation requirements, with recent initiatives like digital platforms further enhancing technological integration in trade facilitation.^[31] These programmes differ in scope: the EU AEO incorporates fiscal and simplification benefits alongside security, whereas CTPAT prioritizes anti-terrorism measures with a strong emphasis on voluntary security partnerships.^[2]^[28]

Mutual Recognition

Concept and Importance

Mutual recognition in the context of Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) refers to an agreement between customs administrations of different countries whereby one recognizes the AEO certification granted by another, thereby avoiding duplicate validations and controls for certified operators involved in international trade. This concept is rooted in the principle of reciprocity, allowing AEO status—based on verified compliance with supply chain security standards—to extend benefits across borders without re-assessment. As the foundation for such recognition, AEO certification ensures that operators meet rigorous criteria for security, compliance, and reliability, enabling trusted partnerships in global logistics.^[4] The importance of mutual recognition lies in its ability to enable seamless cross-border trade by minimizing redundant processes, reducing operational costs for businesses, and enhancing overall supply chain security through standardized risk management. By facilitating faster clearance and fewer inspections for low-risk AEO shipments, it promotes efficiency and predictability in international commerce while upholding high security standards against threats like illicit trade. This aligns directly with Pillar 2, Standard 3 of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, which mandates that customs administrations provide tangible benefits to AEOs and pursue mutual recognition to integrate secure and facilitated trade globally.^[4]^[32] Effective mutual recognition requires several prerequisites, including comparable security standards across participating countries' AEO programs, robust protocols for exchanging information on certifications and validations, and formal bilateral or multilateral commitments to ensure reciprocity and enforcement. These elements foster trust among customs authorities, allowing for delegated procedures where one administration may rely on another's assessments. In the 2025 edition of the WCO SAFE Framework, guidelines have been expanded to better support plurilateral recognition arrangements among multiple countries, addressing emerging challenges such as digital trade through enhanced data sharing and harmonized digital certificate recognition, thereby scaling benefits for complex, technology-driven supply chains.^[4]^[32]

Key Agreements

The European Union and the United States signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) and Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) programs on May 4, 2012, which was fully implemented in February 2013.^[33] This agreement enables certified operators from both sides to benefit from expedited customs processing, reduced inspections, and priority treatment at borders, enhancing supply chain security while facilitating trade between the two economies.^[34] The EU and Japan established an AEO mutual recognition arrangement in June 2010, effective from May 2011, allowing certified traders to enjoy simplified customs procedures and fewer controls in both jurisdictions.^[35] This MRA complements the broader trade facilitation provisions in the 2019 EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, which has boosted bilateral trade volumes exceeding €150 billion annually by reducing non-tariff barriers and streamlining procedures.^[36] Within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) framework, several bilateral MRAs support AEO recognition, including the China-Australia arrangement signed on March 7, 2017, and implemented from December 2023, which provides faster clearance and lower compliance costs for certified exporters.^[37] These APEC initiatives align with regional best practices for mutual recognition, promoting secure and efficient trade among member economies.^[38] The European Union and Canada signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for AEO and Partners in Protection (PIP) programs, which entered into force on August 1, 2025.^[8] This agreement allows certified operators to benefit from streamlined customs procedures, reduced inspections, and enhanced supply chain security, facilitating trade between the EU and Canada. The World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, updated in 2025, emphasizes expanding AEO mutual recognition globally through capacity-building in developing regions.^[4] By November 2025, over 118 bilateral and 6 plurilateral AEO MRAs have been concluded worldwide, yet expansion faces challenges in developing regions due to limited administrative capacity and the need for equivalent security standards.^[39]^[14]

Advantages and Challenges

Benefits

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status provides significant advantages to certified businesses by streamlining customs processes and reducing operational hurdles. Businesses enjoy fewer physical and documentary controls, with some programs granting up to a 50% reduction in such inspections compared to non-AEO operators.^[40] Priority treatment during customs clearance ensures faster processing and release of goods, while expedited refunds of duties and taxes further minimize financial delays.^[2] Additionally, mutual recognition agreements enable enhanced market access, allowing AEO-certified entities to benefit from simplified procedures across participating countries.^[13] Governments gain from AEO programs through improved risk management, as resources can be redirected toward higher-risk non-compliant traders, enhancing overall supply chain security.^[2] This leads to greater operational efficiency, with customs authorities able to allocate inspection efforts more effectively and leverage AEO-provided data for stronger enforcement.^[24] Furthermore, AEO initiatives foster international partnerships by standardizing compliance standards and facilitating mutual recognition, which supports global trade facilitation efforts.^[13] On a broader scale, AEO certification bolsters supply chain resilience by promoting secure and efficient trade flows, reducing vulnerabilities to disruptions.^[40] It delivers cost savings through reduced clearance and inspection times in select programs, which lowers overall trade expenses and accelerates goods movement.^[24] These benefits also encourage higher volumes of compliant trade, contributing to economic growth and revenue stability for participating economies.^[2] In 2025, AEO programs have increasingly tailored support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including simplified certification criteria and dedicated facilitation measures, leading to greater program uptake worldwide.^[16] For instance, expanded access under the updated World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework has enabled more MSMEs to achieve certification, resulting in faster export processing and reduced compliance costs for these entities.^[27]

Challenges

One of the primary implementation barriers to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs is the high compliance costs and administrative burdens, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). These entities often face disproportionate financial and resource constraints in meeting stringent security and documentation requirements, such as investing in 24-hour monitoring systems or undergoing lengthy certification processes that can take up to 120 business days or more.^[41]^[42] Despite efforts in the 2025 update to the World Customs Organization's (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards to enhance inclusivity by tailoring eligibility criteria and expanding access for MSMEs, participation remains low, with only around 1,692 SMEs certified across seven Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies as of 2019.^[9]^[41] The 2025 update also emphasizes enhanced collaboration with environmental authorities on climate change issues and proactive measures against cyber threats in supply chains. Capacity constraints pose significant challenges in developing countries, where customs administrations often lack sufficient resources for effective validation and ongoing monitoring of AEO applicants. Limited training programs and inadequate infrastructure hinder the ability to conduct thorough risk assessments and post-certification audits, leading to inefficiencies in program rollout.^[38] In mutual recognition arrangements (MRAs), data quality issues exacerbate these problems, as incompatible information technology systems and varying trader identification methods across countries impede secure and reliable data exchange, particularly in less developed economies.^[38]^[43] Criticisms of AEO programs highlight their potential to exclude small operators, as inflexible standards and limited outreach efforts—present in only about 23.5% of programs as of 2016—disadvantage MSMEs despite their dominance in global trade volumes.^[38] Uneven global adoption further creates trade disparities, with higher convergence in developed economies like Singapore (86.2%) compared to others like Russia (43.6%) as of 2016, resulting in fragmented benefits and reduced overall trade facilitation.^[38] Additionally, programs face vulnerabilities to insider threats, where personnel risks in supply chains can undermine security, prompting mandates for anti-bribery measures in the 2025 SAFE Framework.^[16] Looking ahead, the WCO recommends enhanced capacity building through targeted training and pilot projects with trade associations to support implementation in resource-limited settings.^[42] Greater harmonization of standards and interoperable systems for MRAs is urged to address inconsistencies and promote broader adoption.^[38] To tackle emerging risks, including cyber threats in supply chains, the WCO SAFE Framework 2025 emphasizes proactive measures like awareness campaigns and joint Customs-AEO initiatives to bolster resilience against illicit trade and disruptions.^[9]

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[39]
[PDF] Integrating SMEs in Authorized Economic Operator Certification
An AEO is defined by. WCO as “a party involved in the international movement of goods in whatever function that has been approved by or on behalf of a national ...
[40]
[PDF] The Authorized Economic Operator and the Small and Medium ...
The SAFE Framework of Standards will revolutionise Customs operations to meet the challenges of the 21st Century and vastly improve its ability to secure and ...
[41]
[PDF] Do AEO Programs Facilitate Trade? An Empirical Assessment of the ...
Many of the operational AEO programs in the world are in developed countries, whereas less developed countries face difficulties both before and after the ...