"Although the AEO programme is potentially onerous on traders, we will make every effort to mitigate the effect of this requirements. The fact is that 9/11 happened, and because of that, the US, the EU and the WCO (World Customs Organisation) are taking increased security measures to ensure that they properly monitor everything that comes into their space. Without AEO, this would be difficult for Irish and European business. In actual fact, AEO is the solution to the problem. Ultimately, these new regulations won't delay trading – they will facilitate it within a security context."  

Josephine Feehily, Irish Revenue Commissioner, Director General of Irish Customs

One of the main elements of the security amendment of the Community Customs Code ( Regulation (EC) 648/2005) is the creation of the AEO concept.

 Economic operators can apply for an AEO status either to have easier access to customs simplifications or to be in a more favourable position to comply with the new security requirements. Under the security framework, which has been applicable since 1 July 2009, economic operators have to submit pre-arrival and pre-departure information on goods entering or leaving the EU. The security type of AEO certificate and the combined one allow their holders to benefit from facilitations with regard to the new customs controls relating to security.

 The status of authorised economic operator granted by one Member State is recognised by the other Member States. This does not automatically allow them to benefit from simplifications provided for in the customs rules in the other Member States. Regulation (EC) No 1192/2008 aligns the rules for granting both the AEO certificate for customs simplifications and the single authorisation for simplified procedures ( SASP). Being an AEO facilitates the process of achieving a single authorisation for simplified procedures as the relevant criteria are deemed to be met

There are many benefits for Economic Operators of an EU AEO status including recognition which will enable businesses to have their consignments fast-tracked through customs controls. Also, if a consignment is selected for examination they will receive priority over non-AEOs. Finally, for businesses holding AEO status they may opt to use a reduced data set when lodging entry or exit summary declarations.