GJEPC’s Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) Convener Manish Jivani moderated the session that featured invited speaker Mihir Turakhia, Partner, Novel Exim. They covered topics such as criteria for applying for AEO, different types of AEO certificates, and benefits of AEO Certification/Accreditation in Customs Clearance.

Turakhia informed attendees that the AEO Scheme is a programme of the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards to secure and facilitate global trade, enhance international supply chain security, facilitate movement of legitimate goods which encompasses various players in the international supply chain.

He emphasised that AEO is in line with the government’s impetus on ease of doing business. This certification will reduce transaction and logistics costs with faster clearances and reduced paperwork. It will provide Indian traders an internationally accepted certification, which will increase business opportunities and benefits, he added.

Attendees were apprised about the eligibility criteria for applying for AEO certification, the three-tier structure (i.e. AEO-T1, AEO-T2 and AEO-T3) of the Indian AEO programme for importers and exporters. The respective norms for certification were explained as well.

The speakers briefed participants about general compliances, documents required for certification, and the process of filing of AEO applications. They also specified the jurisdictional Chief Commissioner offices designated for processing of AEO applications.