WCO technical assistance in reviewing the AEO Manual and Strategic Plan draft in Costa Rica

19 to 28 August 2009

Costa Rica requested the WCO’s assistance with a review of the legal documentation for the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Manual and a draft Strategic Plan for implementation of the Programme. The documentation review was an important aspect of the assistance provided, as the legal documentation will establish the AEO Programme as a Customs-led initiative within the Administration. The Manual provides an insight into the amount of work accomplished by Costa Rica in terms of taking ownership of the Programme and internalizing the AEO concept.

The WCO had asked for a visit to a private sector exporter/importer be arranged in order to facilitate a review in conjunction with the Working Group and to develop a practical working relationship between the Working Group and potential AEO operators. The WCO and Costa Rican Customs also met with various private sector entities to provide information on the AEO concept, permitting Costa Rican Customs to explain the implementation process and timeframe. Last but not least, the WCO met with the Private Sector Consultative Group which had been convened to assist with the design and implementation of the AEO Programme.

A third visit is planned, once the Pilot Programme has been implemented, to review the achievements and challenges.