From 11 to 15 February 2024, the World Customs Organization (WCO), with the financial support from the Customs Cooperation Fund - Japan, provided technical assistance to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and Bangladesh Customs and VAT in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This mission aimed to support the full implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme in Bangladesh and to improve the security and efficiency of the country's international trade.

The mission began with opening remarks by the Chairman of the NBR, highlighting the importance of the AEO programme and the challenges of its effective implementation, as well as a strong commitment to provide further benefits to AEOs.

The Sessions during the five-day workshop covered various topics, including the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, the implementation of the AEO programme in Bangladesh, validation guidance, Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements, training and capacity building, discussion with other sections within the NBR, and meeting with all AEO accredited private sector entities. Based on the findings gained from the fruitful discussions with the AEOs, the NBR will provide training to both the AEOs and NBR officers to promote the AEO programme more effectively, thereby enhancing compliance and facilitating international trade.

This mission provided a valuable opportunity for NBR officers to enhance their capacity on the AEO programme and its implementation in Bangladesh. The mission concluded with the WCO experts highlighting the importance of a strong and continuous partnership between Customs and Businesses, and the NBR identifying areas for further improvement.