The ceremony was attended by representatives from Ghana's Ministry of Finance , Ministry of Trade and Industry , Ghana Link Network Services, and other organizations.
▲AEO Certification Award Ceremony
The Commissioner of GRA-Customs, in his speech at the award ceremony, described the issuance of the AEO qualification certificate as a significant milestone. He emphasized that the AEO program represents the future of GRA-Customs, as it integrates trade facilitation, supply chain security, and compliance to benefit all stakeholders. This forward-looking initiative addresses the complexities of international trade while tackling growing concerns about safety, efficiency, and global cooperation. As Customs continues to modernize, the AEO program is seen as essential for fostering a safer, more efficient, and resilient global trade environment.
▲Speech by GRA-Customs Commissioner in Ghana
| What is AEO?
AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) refers to an enterprise involved in international trade that complies with the standards set by the local General Administration of Customs. The AEO system, advocated by the World Customs Organization (WCO), is a key component of the WCO's "Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade." It aims to certify companies with high levels of legal compliance, creditworthiness, and security through cooperation between customs, the business community, and other government departments. This initiative aims to minimize the risks associated with customs supervision, enhance global supply chain security, and facilitate trade, ultimately achieving mutual benefits and smoother trade flows for the participating enterprises.
AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) certification plays a crucial role in international trade, reflecting GRA-Customs' trust in and recognition of KEDA (Ghana) Ceramics Company Limited. This endorsement allows the company to leverage enhanced trade convenience and preferential treatment. With AEO certification, the company can enjoy priority in processing and customs assessments, expedited declaration procedures, reduced inspection and verification frequencies, and lower logistics time and costs.
Moreover, AEO certification facilitates customs clearance benefits for international trade partners in countries or regions with mutual recognition agreements with GRA-Customs. This strengthens collaboration and fosters closer relationships with global trade partners.
| GRA-Customs AEO Certification Standards:
The application and awarding of AEO certification by GRA-Customs follow rigorous and comprehensive standards. As this marks the first issuance of AEO certification in GRA-Customs' history, Twyford Ghana Ceramics and other accredited enterprises must comply with, but are not limited to, the following criteria:
- 1. Excellent operational and management records that comply with customs supervision standards.
- 2. Strong management of business operations and transportation records.
- 3. Solid financial status with sufficient repayment capability.
- 4. High standards of security and asset protection.
GRA-Customs conducted a thorough review over more than a year of the application qualifications of Twyford Ghana Ceramics and other applicants. This process involved carefully assessing their operational management capabilities and their effectiveness in communicating and cooperating with customs and other relevant departments.
(Twyford Ghana Ceramics)