Customs President awards GCC AEO Certificate to several companies

Manama, May 22 (BNA): Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of Customs, presented the GCC Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Certificate to a number of companies in recognition of their compliance with the highest requirements related to customs procedures, regulations, and associated activities, as outlined in the GCC AEO Guide for Customs Affairs. The programme aligns with the SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade issued by the World Customs Organisation.

The Customs President commended the certified companies, which were DHL International Bahrain, DHL Global Forwarding Bahrain, NAS Commercial Company, Trafco Group, Crown Industries, and Future Communications Company (Bahrain). He highlighted Customs Affairs’ ongoing efforts to offer a wide range of privileges and facilitations to companies approved under the programme, aiming to save time and reduce costs by accelerating customs transactions and reducing cargo clearance times.

The programme also provides additional benefits through facilitation services offered by several government regulatory bodies, under signed service-level agreements. Furthermore, international facilitation is available through mutual recognition arrangements signed with other countries, including reduced rates of manual inspection on imports and expedited cargo clearance.

The programme is a voluntary, unified initiative across GCC countries. Supply chain companies may apply to join the programme, which involves an assessment and audit process to verify eligibility criteria prior to approval and the granting of benefits. Applications are submitted through the Single Window System (OFOQ2), and companies may contact the designated team at aeobahrain@customs.gov.bh.

Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad thanked all those who contributed to the inclusion of these companies in the GCC AEO programme. He confirmed that this event reflects the ongoing efforts of Customs Affairs to facilitate international trade and support economic growth by enhancing local partnerships with the private sector and expanding facilitation programmes in line with government priorities and the strategic plan of Customs Affairs, thereby contributing to the goals of sustainable development and the advancement of the Kingdom of Bahrain.