Companies join Authorized Economic Operator program

About five companies began in the pilot Authorized Economic Operator program (AEO) promoted by the National Customs Authority (ANA), joining neighboring countries that have implemented this scheme.

The idea of the pilot AEO program is to make the necessary adjustments in the program before the trial period expires. This is a voluntary project for companies to participate in.

The ANA reported that 15 companies submitted their documents to participate in the pilot program through assessments of various departments of the organization such as: Risk Analysis, Technical Management, Prevention and Control Division of the Customs Regional Administrators and other administrative units of Customs.

Those companies that were not chosen may make their request to participate when the program is officially established. However, this does not mean they will have the guarantee of a certification program, explained the Customs entity.

In this pilot program, included is the representation of companies that are part of the supply chain including ports, inland carriers, brokers, logistics agents and export companies.

In the region there are countries that are implementing the AEO figure, as in the case of Guatemala, which has already certified companies as AEOs, while Costa Rica, Colombia and the Dominican Republic have already launched the program but have not yet certified companies.

Those interested in becoming certified as AEOs must meet certain requirements divided into four general groups:

• Have an administrative record of compliance with Customs, tax and judicial entities;
• Have administrative, accounting and logistics capabilities;
• Be financially solvent and accredited; and
• Have measures for protection and safety.

According to the private sector and ANA, the implementation of the AEO program in Panama, that is promoted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), will bring many benefits, one of which is the reduction of physical and documentation work.

For the CEO of DHL Global Forwarding for Central America and the Caribbean, Kurt Schosinsky, the AEO figure undoubtedly will contribute to the strengthening and development of the Customs system and international trade.