Authorized Economic Operator Programs
In the Islamic Countries:
Enhancing Customs-Traders Partnership
57
It is also noteworthy that in 5 out of 7 countries (63 percent convergence), risk management
departments assist with AEO program management and oversight. In the AEO design and
implementation, it is important to consider the entire supply chain using a multi-layered
approach along with intelligence-driven risk management and risk owner concepts. If there is
a risk management department in the Customs Authority that is involved with the AEO
administration, it can help build a stronger foundation for the design and implementation of
the processes using its accumulated knowledge on risk management.
The survey results also show that among OIC member economies, some Customs Authorities
prefer to centralize their AEO program in the headquarters while others delegate AEO
authority to regional and field offices (with continued guidance by AEO specialists at
headquarters). The variety of Customs organizational structures is foreseeable due to the fact
that each country is unique in terms of its economic, social and cultural environment.
Training provided to Customs officials variable among survey respondents exhibit a 79
percent convergence. While all Customs Authorities have training and capacity building
initiatives for the development and implementation of their AEO programs, regular training
programs are missing in general (38 percent convergence). Formalized and ‘regular’ training is
particularly important if the AEO program in OIC will start requiring AEO technical specialists
from the inauguration of their programs. Almost all best practices around the globe do have
such training positions for their specialists (Figure 3.17).
Figure 3.17. Training provided to Customs officers
Source: Authors’ compilation using survey data.
Theme 6: Partnership between Customs Authority and the private sector
Theme 6 can be considered as one of the core parts of the entire survey. It is composed of
partnership initiatives, benefits of AEO programs, mutual recognition agreements and the SME
involvement in the program.
88%
88%
38%
88%
88%
88%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Academic Training
Skill Training
Regular Training Programs
AEO-specific Training
Supply Chain Security Training
Audit Training