A E O
Authorised Economic Operator
The AEO Programme is primarily a trade facilitation measure. Operators established in the EU, that meet specific qualifying criteria, may apply for and receive AEO certification. The aim of the AEO Programme is to enhance security through granting recognition to reliable traders and encourage best practice at all levels in the international supply chain.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR AEO STATUS?:
Application for AEO status is open to all economic operators established within the customs territory of the EU. Article 1 of Regulation 1875/2006 defines an economic operator as a ''person who in the course of his business, is involved in activities covered by customs legislation''. Therefore, if a person is not directly involved in importing/exporting he may not be an economic operator as defined in the Regulation.
Application for AEO status will be open to all links in the global supply chain i.e. manufacturers, exporters, freight forwarders, warehouse-keepers, clearance agents, carriers and importers. However, there are four sets of criteria, which must be satisfied, as follows:
1 |
An appropriate record of compliance with Revenue requirements; |
|---|---|
2 |
A satisfactory system of managing commercial and, where appropriate, transport records which allow appropriate Revenue controls; |
3 |
Proven financial solvency; and |
4 |
Appropriate security and safety standards. |
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AEO STATUS?
| AEOs will be recognised worldwide as safe, secure and compliant business partners in international trade; | |
| AEOs will be given a lower risk score in risk analysis systems when profiling; | |
| If physical controls are to be conducted, AEOs will be given priority treatment; | |
| Mutual recognition of AEO programmes under Joint Customs Co-operation Agreements could result in faster movement of their goods through third country borders; and | |
| AEOs will be in a stronger position to benefit from simplified procedures. |
As a consequence of increasing their safety and security standards, traders may also benefit from the following:
| Reduced theft and losses; | |
| Fewer delayed shipments; | |
| Improved planning; | |
| Improved member loyalty; | |
| Reduced security and safety incidents; | |
| Reduced crime and vandalism; and | |
| Improved security and communication between supply chain partners. |
HOW LONG WILL THE AUTHORISATION BE VALID FOR?
There is no expiry date on authorisations. An AEO is legally obliged to inform the competent customs authority of significant events that could affect his/her authorisation. Authorisations will also be subject to reviews if any of the following occur:
| Major changes to relevant Community legislation; or | |
| Reasonable indication that the relevant conditions and criteria are no longer been met by the AEO. |
Revenue contact details:
Contact: Jack LongPhone No: 067 63103
E-mail: aeo@revenue.ie
Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme
Customs Procedures Branch, Economic Procedures, Authorisations & Reliefs Unit,
Government Offices,
St. Conlon's Road,
Nenagh, Co Tipperary.
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