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2.2.2 The Japanese Case
Evolution of the AEO Program
In 2006, the Japanese Customs has initiated an AEO program in line with the “SAFE
Framework” of WCO, which was developed in close cooperation with the business sector, with
the goals of ensuring security and facilitating trade in an inclusive way. The mechanism of AEO
programs in both exports and imports is represented in Figure 2.4 that describes how different
operators (manufacturers, warehouse operators, custom brokers and logistic operators)
intervene between the national Customs and importers and exporters abroad. The main
operators are importers, exporters, warehouse operators, Customs brokers, logistics operators
and manufacturers as it is shown in Figure 2.5.
Figure 2.4. Types of Operators for Exports and Imports in Japan
Source: Customs and Tariff Bureau and Ministry of Finance (2018).
Two remarks are worth to be mentioned. First, most of the operators are either exporters or
Customs brokers. Indeed, in 2018, 36 percent of the operators are exporters, 14 percent
importers, 20 percent warehouse operator, 28 percent Customs brokers and 1 percent logistic
operator. Second, the expansion in the number of operators was relatively gradual, a new type
of operator was added each year, pointing out a rather vigilant increase to guarantee an
efficient implementation of the AEO program.