In response to the needs of international markets based on the current context, there are some certifications that grant benefits to entities involved in international trade activities, such as manufacturers, importers, exporters, customs brokers, carriers, grouping operators, intermediaries, port, airport or terminal operators, integrated transport operators, warehouse operators, distributors, and operators of transported. To this end, security standards were established in order to reduce illegal acts that endanger the security of the country. SAFE Framework
As the title mentions, this edition will address issues related to AEO certifications, which is in charge of the Tax Administration Service; as well as CTPAT, which is regulated by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
It should be noted that in Canada it operates under the name of Partners in Protection (PIP) and in the United States it is known as Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT). This is a figure promoted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is developed by the customs authority of each country, also, each country has its own selection criteria.
SAFE Framework
While it is true that each country has its selection criteria, it is also true that all AEO models are defined by the WCO SAFE Standards Framework, which is regularly updated to effectively address new developments and updates in the international supply chain.
We have that the SAFE 2021 Framework of Standards, “strengthens cooperation between Customs and Other Border Control Authorities, promotes smart security devices to optimize customs control and effectively monitor the movement of goods in real time, and includes basic provisions on the development of AEO programs in regional customs unions and the implementation of mutual recognition.”
And its main objectives are:
- Establish standards that provide security and facilitate the logistics chain worldwide.
- Allow the integrated and harmonized management of the logistics chain for all means of transport.
- Enhance the mission, functions and capabilities of Customs to meet the challenges and opportunities of the twenty-first century.
- Strengthen cooperation between customs administrations to improve their ability to detect high-risk shipments.
- Strengthen cooperation between customs authorities and their exchange of information for the recognition of Authorized Economic Operators.
- Strengthen cooperation between Customs and companies.
- Promote the smooth movement of goods through the use of secure logistics chains of international trade.
What is C-TPAT?
They are the acronym of Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, which in Spanish means Customs Trade Association against Terrorism. As already mentioned, it is under the regulations of the CBP, whose origin dates back to the attacks of September 11 and the alliance between the US government and private initiative, whose objective is to strengthen the supply chain and secure the merchandise that enters the United States to reduce risks of illicit substances, smuggling or terrorist devices.
It is important to note that, to be certified as a member of this program, it is essential to be a Mexican or Canadian company, otherwise, only by direct investment of the United States will it be possible to access this certification.
What is AEO?
The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification in Mexico is the voluntary program of security in the supply chain, regulated by the General Rules of Foreign Trade, through the SAT. Interested companies should check that they have safety procedures and standards in place.
Modalities to be obtained under the AEO certification
- Marketer and importer
- Aircraft
- Controller
- SECIIT
- Textile
- Strategic Audited Enclosure
- Logistics outsourcing
Proceeds
Broadly speaking, these certifications grant administrative and operational benefits that allow the processes at the border to be more efficient since, the certified companies, being considered as low risk by the customs authorities, take less time in the filters of the crossing, thus obtaining faster access, improving the import and export time, which in turn means less risk in perishable products.
Additionally, by having multiple security measures in their procedures and their supply chain in general, they significantly reduce the handling or misuse of their shipments; consequently, it improves their reputation and becomes more reliable before the customs authorities, as well as positioning them in a more competitive plane.
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