Authorised Economic Operator - AEO

An Authorised Economic Operator enjoys a special status: he is regarded as particularly reliable and trustworthy and in return can make use of special privileges within the framework of customs clearance. 

Increasing globalisation and the modified international security situation have prompted the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to set up a "Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade" (SAFE) to create worldwide basic conditions for modern and effective risk management in customs authorities.

The European Union transformed these security policy aspects into European law in April 2005 by amending the customs code (regulation (EC) no. 648/2005) and put them into concrete terms in December 2006 upon publication of the implementing rules (regulation (EC) no. 1875/2006). An important element of this security initiative is the introduction of the status of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). 

Companies based in the European Union and involved in customs events have been able to apply for this status since 1 January 2008. This status gives an entitlement to privileges during security-related customs inspections and/or simplifications in accordance with customs regulations. 

The objective is to safeguard the continuous international supply chain from the manufacturer of a commodity through to the end consumer.  Negotiations are currently underway with third countries (in particular with the USA, China and Switzerland) that are expected to lead to worldwide recognition of the status. 

Status as an Authorised Economic Operator is valid in all member states and is not subject to any time restrictions. The following status variations can be granted:

• AEO certificate "Simplification under Customs Law " (AEO C)
• AEO certificate "Security" (AEO S)
• AEO certificate "Simplification under Customs Law /Security" (AEO F).

The AEO is the European version of C-TPAT, the American customs partnership programme. The security chains are considered to be almost identical. Mutual recognition of the security criteria of the “Approved Economic Operator” AEO of the EU and of the American customs partnership programme C-TPAT has existed since 2009.