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May 22, 2026 at 7:01 AM
(Pressebox) Global trade is facing increasing challenges. Geopolitical risks, heightened security requirements, and a higher density of controls at the borders of the USA, the EU, and other customs areas necessitate professional supply chain security management. In this context, two programs play a central role: the AEO status (Authorised Economic Operator) of the European Union and the C-TPAT program (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The company Validato offers support with its module „Validato Regulations AEO / C-TPAT“ for companies that wish to meet the requirements of both programs digitally and in a compliant manner.
AEO Status in Germany
The AEO status has been available for all companies based in the EU since January 1, 2008. The responsibility lies with the main customs office at the location of the main accounting. The relevant legal bases are enshrined in the Union Customs Code (UCC). In Germany, there are three approval variants: AEOC (Customs Simplifications), AEOS (AEO Security), and a combined variant that unites both aspects. The AEO status is increasingly demanded by customers and is often a prerequisite for internationally active companies.
C-TPAT Program in the USA
The C-TPAT program was launched in November 2001 by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Currently, over 11,400 certified partners participate, representing approximately 52% of the value of all U.S. imports. The benefits of C-TPAT certification include access to FAST lanes at U.S. land borders, reduced inspection rates, and eligibility for the FDA Secure Supply Chain Program.
Mutual Recognition between the EU and the USA
A crucial element of cooperation between the EU and the USA is the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). This agreement allows an AEOS-certified company in Germany or Austria to be recognized by the CBP as a trusted trading partner and vice versa. This leads to faster customs clearances and a reduced intensity of controls for trading partners classified as low-risk.
AEO in Austria and Switzerland
In Austria, AEO consulting is coordinated by the WKO, while the Austrian Customs Office is responsible for certification. An Austrian AEO certificate is valid in all EU member states. Switzerland and the United Kingdom have their own AEO-equivalent programs, which also operate bilateral MRAs with the EU. This allows Swiss and British exporters to benefit from reduced controls as well.
Digital Compliance Platform by Validato
The module „Validato Regulations AEO / C-TPAT“ covers the entire compliance lifecycle, from the initial application to validation preparation. It includes, among other things, a digital application management system for the main customs offices in Germany and Austria, management of C-TPAT security profiles, and compliance tracking for MRA agreements. Additionally, the platform offers compliant documentation and an audit trail that is ready for inspection by customs authorities worldwide.
The numbers speak for themselves: Since the launch of the AEO program in the EU in January 2008, over 30,000 companies have been certified. More than 11,400 partners are active in the C-TPAT program. The mutual recognition between the programs promotes efficiency in international trade and provides companies with the opportunity to be recognized as trusted trading partners.
