We have heard on numerous occasions about the factors affecting the take up of AEO status not just in the UK but across Europe. However, is that trend about to change?
HMRC have issued in the region of 31 certificates and currently have 160 applications in the system. However, what is interesting is that familiar household names are now appearing in this process. It was always felt that large businesses would enter the scheme sooner rather than later. They could be prompted by such news as: the positive progress on mutual recognition with the US, with a potential agreement date of April/May 2009; self assessment schemes for AEO traders being progressed by Member States; and the potential of guarantee waivers. In order to benefit from theses schemes traders must have AEO status or met the AEO criteria.
Traders recognised that there is a timing issue in the preparation of the AEO application through to the successful audit by HMRC and the certificate award. This could be influencing the business decision to submit applications as currently, out of the 160 applications, 22% are from large businesses.
Return to SITPRO News: Issue 66, Autumn 2008
