The Nigeria Customs Service, on Friday launched its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, offering significant benefits to businesses involved in international trade from faster customs clearance, reduced business cost, trade facilitation to supply chain security.
However, gaining AEO status requires meeting certain eligibility criteria.
These criteria are designed to ensure that participating companies maintain high standards of compliance, security, and financial stability.
While sector-specific requirements may apply (and can be found at aeo.nigeriatradehub.gov.ng), the following general criteria outline the key qualifications for companies seeking AEO accreditation.
1.An applicant for AEO certification must be an Economic Operator in the International supply chain.
2.The applying entity must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with a registration period of at least 5 years for AEO Security and Safety (AEO-S) and a minmum of three 3 years for AEO Customs Simplification (AEO-C).
3.The company must hold a valid Tax Clearance Certificate, with a minimum coverage of 5 years for AEO Security and Safety (AEO-S) and at least 3 years for AEO Customs.
4.The company must provide an audited financial report for a minimum of 5 years for AEO Security and Safety (AEO-S) and at least 3 years for AEO Customs Simplification (AEO-C).
5.Relevant Operational Licenses (where applicable).
6.Other Relevant Regulatory Certifications (ISO certifications, SON, NAFDAC etc.).
7.AEO -S applicants require ISO 28001. This is an international standard that defines the requirements of the Supply Chain Security Management System and provides a management model for organizations seeking to implement it.
Please refer to aeo.nigeriatradehub gov.ng for sector specific eligibility criteria, as the criteria listed above is not exhaustive.
