DUBAI: Dubai Customs launched the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), which contributes drastically to the establishing of strategic partnerships that ensure better security and facilitation of global supply chains via Mutual Recognition Agreements, as per the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework). The move is in line with Dubai Customs’ vision to be “The leading customs administration in the world supporting legitimate trade”.
On this regard, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World and Chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, commented, “We are adopting continuous development as a core methodology in utilizing the best strategies and practices in advancing our services. We proceed from the vision of and directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in developing services that bring happiness to people.”
His Excellency also added, “The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) will grant us a bundle benefits, including a higher predictability of the global supply chain, which aids in better planning and management of the chain logistics. It will also reduce physical and documentary controls, ultimately leading to the simplification of procedures and smooth trading.”
H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Dubai Customs Director stated, “The AEO program shall accommodate all parties concerned with the global supply chain such of ports, airports and customs clearance agencies as well as local companies working in the field of international trade; providing them with more facilitated customs procedures and the added value of a more secure supply chain.”
Ahmed Mahboob also reaffirmed that the AEO program will provide an added value to the superior customs services and facilitations already being delivered, in the preparation of Expo 2020.
He also added, “The implementation of this program will increase mutual recognition, build trust and scale ties with customs administrations and authorities in the region and the world, which is to be achieved via the Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), as well as increasing voluntary compliance in global trade.”
In respect to the advantages of being recognized as an AEO for supply chain partners, Musabih elaborated that reliable and compliant partners will benefit from simplifications in the customs procedures and from facilitation with regard to customs controls relating to safety and security.
Some of these facilitations include pre-arrival shipment clearance, joining MRAs, a preferential customs treatment and offering customs advice upon request. Such benefits require the partners to undergo an initial audit phase conducted by the customs authority in order to verify their proper alignment with the World Customs Organization’s rules and regulations as well as ensure the availability of technological resources that can accommodate the volume of operations of the prospect partner.
His Excellency Ahmed Mahboob stressed that the launch and implementation of this program will boost the international confidence in Dubai as a reliable and favorable destination for investment, and will increase the prospects of making inroads into new markets.
