Agreement with United Kingdom on mutual recognition of AEO status
Bern, 14.04.2021 - During its meeting on 14 April 2021, the Federal Council approved the agreement with the United Kingdom on the mutual recognition of the authorised economic operator (AEO) status. The agreement is intended to reduce technical barriers to trade and facilitate trade with the United Kingdom for companies with AEO status.
After the attacks of 11 September 2001, measures were taken internationally to increase customs security, and these also impact the cross-border movement of goods. Among other things, provision was made for an advance summary declaration for all goods imported from third countries or exported to third countries. A key element of the security initiatives is the introduction of AEO status for companies. The aim of this is to provide end-to-end security for the entire supply chain, from the goods producer to the end consumer. The transition period under the withdrawal agreement between the United Kingdom and the European Union expired on 31 December 2020. Therefore, the United Kingdom, like other third countries, has an advance summary declaration obligation for all goods.
Special privileges for companies with AEO status
The mutual recognition of AEO status with the United Kingdom, as approved today by the Federal Council, makes it possible to grant AEO-certified companies of the contracting states significant benefits and simplifications. Companies with AEO status are considered particularly trustworthy, which is why they enjoy privileges with respect to security-related customs controls and can take advantage of customs clearance simplifications. Technical barriers to trade are thereby reduced and trade is facilitated. The agreement has yet to be ratified by the United Kingdom.
Address for enquiries
Media Section
Federal Customs Administration FCA
Tel. 058 462 67 43, medien@ezv.admin.ch
Publisher
The Federal Council
https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html
Federal Department of Finance
https://www.efd.admin.ch/efd/en/home.html
