AEO (Authorised Economic Operators) is a European Union directive primarily developed to improve the security of the international supply chain. Businesses involved in the international supply chain may choose to apply and, if they meet specified criteria, be authorised for the status of AEO.

Authorised companies will have an internationally recognised quality mark that demonstrates they operate within a secure supply chain and their internal customs controls and procedures are efficient and compliant. This status will inform Customs' risk assessment and result in reduced interventions and delay when the goods are imported to or exported from the European Community.

There are 3 types of certificates that will be issued: security and safety; customs simplification, and a combined certificate that covers both areas. The applications for AEO in the UK must be submitted using forms C117 and C118. Both of these forms are available for download using this link:

AEO status will enter into force on 1 January 2008 across the EU.