The AEO Compendium is regularly updated to track the developments relating to AEO programmes and Customs compliance programmes, as well as Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements (MRAs). The AEO Compendium has become a single point of reference of information for Customs Administrations, the private sector and other stakeholders. Information in the Compendium is provided and verified by WCO Members. The AEO Compendium is incorporated in the WCO SAFE Package, which is a resource that contains several tools to assist with establishing and administering AEO programmes.
AEO has become a flagship Customs-Business partnership programme for WCO Members as it offers an opportunity for Customs to share its security responsibilities with the private sector, while at the same time rewarding them with a number of additional facilitation benefits. Partnership programmes with trade allow Customs to achieve more with less effort and aim at ensuring sustainable and long-term compliance through incentives, such as reduced levels of control, simplified procedures, periodic reporting, deferred payment, and reputational benefits, as well as facilitation benefits across borders through MRAs.
Beyond developing standards and guidelines, the WCO provides capacity building support to its Members in establishing and enhancing AEO programmes in close cooperation with donor organizations, wherever required, through international, national and regional activities. Partnerships with businesses are also indispensable, as evidenced by the contribution of the WCO Private Sector Consultative Group to the work of the WCO SAFE Working Group in supporting and reviewing the implementation of the SAFE Framework of Standards.
As of July 2018, 169 out of 182 WCO Members have signed Letters of Intent committing to implement the SAFE Framework.
Based on the information provided by Members, this edition of the AEO Compendium identifies 77 operational AEO programmes, 17 AEO programmes that are to be launched, 31 Operational Customs Compliance programmes and 2 Customs Compliance programmes to be launched.
In addition to the provision of basic information on AEO and Customs compliance programmes, the Compendium also includes a short overview of respective AEO programme accreditation procedures and benefits.