What is AEO? – AEO status is an internationally recognised quality mark indicating that your role in the international supply chain is secure, and that your customs controls and procedures are efficient and compliant. 1
HMRC does not yet know how many of the estimated 180,000 traders that currently interact solely within the EU will make customs declarations under a new arrangement with the EU, nor their readiness to make declarations from March 2019. 3
With March 2019 and Brexit just around the corner it is increasingly looking like AEO accreditation and its associated benefits will become a “must have” in the very near future.
Information made clear:
1) AEO was first introduced – 2008. In 2016 UCC implemented changes and as a result the area specifically impacted was Safety and Security.
2) In May 2016, sixty-nine countries had implemented operational AEO programs and sixteen AEO programs are in the process of being launched. 2
3) Countries where there is AEO mutual recognition
• USA
• Japan
• Norway (security declarations only)
• Switzerland (security declarations only)
• China
Negotiations with Canada should soon be completed.
4) Is there another AEO status?
YES – Approved Economic Operator (APEO) for economic operators dealing with fishery products and catch certificates. APEO should be eligible to use simplified procedures regarding the import of fishery products into the EU.
If the APEO applicant is holder of an AEOS authorisation, the application process is simplified.
5) Current UK AEO
holders = 608 (as of 12/1/18)
a. 233 – AEOC
b. 360 – AEOF
c. 15 – AEOS
Therefore, in conclusion don’t leave it until the last minute to apply and get “caught out” in the backlog apply now. Associated guidance which can be found using the following links:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/import-and-export-authorised-economic-operator-application-c117
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/import-and-export-authorised-economic-operator-self-assessment-questionnaire-c118
If you need further help, guidance or advice please do not hesitate to contact us. Our knowledge and “hands on” experience covers all business categories for when applying and re-certification.
1 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/authorised-economic-operator-certification
2 Compendium of Authorized Economic Operator Programs, (Brussels, World Customs Organization, 2012).
3 https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/The-Customs-Declaration-Service-Summary.pdf
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