KARACHI: Government of Pakistan is interested in joining the WCO Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, which is widely acknowledged as a key driver for a solid Customs-Business Partnership; secure, transparent and predictable trading environment; and in a wider context, enhanced economic prosperity.

In this regard a delegation comprising representatives from Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Ministry of Commerce visited Malaysia and took a detailed synopsis of the AEO.

The delegation comprised Member FBR Shaukat Ali (BS-21), Director General Customs Valuation Syed Tanveer Ahmed (BS-21), Collector Port Qasim Mukaram Jah (BS-20) and Zubair Yousafani (BS-20), Azhar Merchant and Abdul Hai Shaikh (BS-19), Zehra Naqvi (BS-18); two (BS-18) officers of Ministry of Commerce Asif Fareed and Umar Bhatti.

The delegation also visited the office of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) in Malaysia. The delegation members would submit their separate reports to FBR in this regard.

The WCO strongly supports the implementation of an AEO program and welcomes the growing number of countries implementing AEO as well as various Customs compliance programs and the Authorized Operator scheme under the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) as a first step towards the implementation of a full-fledged AEO program.

If Pakistan implements the AEO, there would be an Advanced Ruling Center, which would enable the exporters to know the valuation ruling to be imposed on the goods exported in the destination country.

The implementation of the AEO would result in saving costs and time. Reduction of operational costs for the exporters; Anticipation of the consignments sent to other countries; Competitive difference with other operators; Use of non intrusive technology for cargo control; International accreditation of the supply chain; Identification as Reliable Operator by other Customs Administrations; Gain access to the major facilities at the port of entry in the country of destination; Ensure the smooth and secure flow of goods; Keep the integrity of the shipment.

However, it would also bring more responsibility for the authorities in Pakistan particularly Pakistan Customs to maintain the goodwill and reputation of the country.