What is AEO?
One of the main elements of the security amendment of the Community Customs Code ( Regulation (EC) 648/2005) is the creation of the AEO concept.
Member States can grant the AEO status to any economic operator meeting the following common criteria: customs compliance, appropriate record-keeping, financial solvency and, where relevant, security and safety standards.
The status of authorised economic operator granted by one Member State is recognised by the other Member States. This does not automatically allow them to benefit from simplifications provided for in the customs rules in the other Member States. However, other Member States should grant the use of simplifications to authorised economic operators if they meet specific requirements.
Economic operators can apply for an AEO status either to have easier access to customs simplifications or to be in a more favourable position to comply with the new security requirements. Under the security framework, which has been applicable since 1 July 2009, economic operators have to submit pre-arrival and pre-departure information on goods entering or leaving the EU. The security type of AEO certificate and the combined one allow their holders to benefit from facilitations with regard to the new customs controls relating to security.
For more information please visit the website of the European Commission.
