www.statusin.org

Organization : Ethiopian Revenues & Customs Authority
Type of Facility : Authorized Economic Operators (AEO)
Country: Ethiopia
Website : https://customs.erca.gov.et/trade/

ERCA Authorized Economic Operators

The AEO program is primarily a trade facilitation measure for Economic Operators established in Ethiopia that meets specific qualifying criteria, may apply for and receive AEO certification.

Related / Similar Service  :
ERCA TIN Registration Ethiopia

The aim of the AEO program is to enhance compliance through granting recognition to reliable operators and encouraging best practice at all levels in the international supply chain.

Who Can Apply?

Therefore Application for AEO status is opened to all companies who have links in the global supply chain, i.e.: manufacturers, exporters, freight forwarders, warehouse-keepers, clearance agents, carriers and importers.

What preparation should a company make in advance of submitting an application?
First be sure that your relevant procedures are documented and available for Auditing. In this regard you should create a tabulated folder of your procedures cross-referencing it with the relevant questions in the self-assessment questionnaire then you can submit an application for AEO status. It may be the case that some of your responses will simply be cross-references to sections in your procedures.

Is AEO mandatory for businesses involved in the supply chain?
AEO is not mandatory. Applying for AEO status is a business decision, and is dependant on the circumstances of your trade, your role in the supply chain, and what the benefits are for your business in having AEO status.

Benefits

AEO’s will be given a lower risk score in risk analysis systems when profiling; If physical controls are to be conducted AEO’s will be given priority treatment; AEO’s will be in a stronger position to benefit from simplified procedures.

As a consequence of increasing their safety and security standards, traders may also benefit from the following:
** reduced theft and losses;
** fewer delayed shipments;
** improved customer loyalty;
** reduced security and safety incidents;
** reduced crime and vandalism;
** Improved security and communication between supply chain partners.

How to apply for AEO?:
Download and fill the AEO Application and Self Assessment forms and submit to ERCA

Where should applications submit?:
The AEO application form with the self assessment questionnaire should be submitted to the AEO procedure and program development team in ERCA, head office Block “A” room No 202

How long will the authorization be valid for?:
The authorization is valid for two years. An AEO is legally obliged to inform the competent customs and tax authority of significant events that could affect his/her authorization. Authorizations will also be subject to review if any of the following occur:
** major changes to the relevant Community legislation;
** Reasonable indication that the relevant conditions and criteria are no longer being met by the AEO.

Who will carry out the evaluation of applications?:
The physical evaluation of AEO applications and the detail system compliance audit will be carried out by the Authority’s AEO compliance Audit team in collaboration with other relevant departments and directorates of the authority.

Additional Simplified Procedure

To apply for ERCA Authorized Economic Operators (AEO), you can follow these steps:
1. Contact your local customs authority: The first step is to contact your local customs authority to find out if they are participating in the AEO program. If they are, they will be able to provide you with the application form and instructions.

2. Complete the application form: The application form will ask for information about your company, including your legal name, address, contact information, and the type of goods you trade in. You will also need to provide information about your security measures and your commitment to compliance with customs regulations.

3. Submit the application form: Once you have completed the application form, you will need to submit it to your local customs authority.

4. Meet the eligibility criteria: To be eligible for AEO status, your company must meet certain criteria. These criteria vary from country to country, but they typically include having a good compliance record, implementing security measures, and being financially sound.

5. Undergo an audit: Once your application has been submitted, your company will be audited by your local customs authority. The audit will assess your company’s compliance with the AEO criteria.

6. Receive AEO status: If your company is successful in the audit, you will be granted AEO status. This status will give you certain benefits, such as expedited clearance at customs and reduced inspections.

Here are some of the benefits of being an AEO:
** Expedited clearance at customs
** Reduced inspections
** Increased cooperation with customs authorities
** Improved reputation with trading partners
** Reduced costs