The Malta Business Bureau and the Malta Customs Division are holding a seminar on the authorised economic operator scheme at the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry on Thursday between 8.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m.

The scheme is designed to balance increased security requirements with facilitations for reliable operators who trade with non-EU countries. Traders who are certified under the AEO scheme will enjoy simplifications on conventional customs procedures and customs safety and security measures. The legal basis of the AEO scheme is provided by Regulation (EC) 648/2005 amending the Community Customs Code and the relevant implementing provisions in Regulation (EC) 1875/2006. The four criteria that must be satisfied to obtain AEO certification will be discussed during the presentation.

They include an appropriate record of compliance with customs requirements; a satisfactory system of managing commercial and where appropriate transport records, which allow appropriate customs controls; proven financial solvency; and approved security and safety standards.

One should also note that the evaluation of AEO application will not constitute a regular customs audit, and the evaluation process may vary depending on the size and type of the applicant's business.

For registration call 2125 1719 or e-mail info@mbb.org.mt. For information about the scheme contact the AEO Section within the Customs Head Office at aeocustoms@gov.mt.