The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status offers businesses engaged in international trade multiple advantages in the relationship with the Customs Service, such as a higher level of trust during customs proceedings. This was discussed at a presentation that brought together over 80 Moldovan companies.
The event was organized by the Customs Service with the Support of the USAID Structural Reform Program and with the contribution of the Moldovan Chamber of Trade and Industry. The goal was to present the advantages of acquiring the AEO status, which include reduced costs and clearance times and enhanced security in transborder traffic.
Customs Service acting director Iurie Ceban said facilitating trade is a priority for the customs authorities, and this explains the introduction of such measures like simplified rules for declaring goods, mechanisms of facilitating transborder traffic, and incentives for law-abiding operators.
“Among the measures already introduced by the Customs Service, AEO is right at the top, as it offers to any operator a privileged status in undergoing customs proceedings, thanks to voluntary compliance with the law,” said Ceban.
One simplified procedure highlighted by Iurie Ceban is the so-called “at-home clearance”, whereby the customs clearance formalities take place at the premises of the operator or at the unloading point, saving time and costs.
Douglas Muir, USAID Program Chief of Party, praised Moldova for being a regional leader in developing and implementing the AEO status. “Our Program supports the recognition of the AEO status between Moldova and its neighbors. The AEO is part of the continued support USAID provides to the Customs Service and it is an important factor in advancing regional trade and integration,” said Douglas Muir.
The companies attending the presentation were able to learn details about the requirements and steps for becoming an AEO, and what the benefits for the business environment are.
An Authorized Economic Operator is a company that is considered trustworthy in the context of customs formalities. At present there are about 120 AEOs in Moldova.