The Bureau of Customs (BOC), through its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Office, conducted a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in September and October 2025, with key stakeholders in the international supply chain, including Customs Brokers, Container Yard and Container Freight Station (CY-CFS) Operators, and Freight Forwarders.
These consultations form part of the Bureau’s ongoing efforts to expand the coverage of the AEO Program to other trade partners.
Currently, the program primarily caters to importers and exporters with AEO-recognized affiliates abroad and those accredited under the Super Green Lane Trade Facility.
The discussions aimed to gather industry insights and recommendations on potential benefits, privileges, and compliance measures that may be extended to additional sectors under the enhanced AEO framework.
Presentations were delivered by AEO Office representatives on the history and overview of the AEO Program, criteria and accreditation process, and updates on the Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs).
“Inputs will be carefully evaluated for inclusion in the forthcoming program expansion.”
AEO officials, together with the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group (AOCG), acknowledged the valuable inputs shared by participants and assured that these will be carefully evaluated for inclusion in the forthcoming program expansion.
Stakeholders were likewise encouraged to submit their position papers by the end of the month for consolidation and review by the AEO Office.
“Its expansion to other trade partners underscores our goal of promoting a culture of compliance and shared responsibility in achieving a safer and more competitive global supply chain.”
“Strengthening collaboration with the private sector through the AEO Program is central to our reform agenda. Its expansion to other trade partners underscores our goal of promoting a culture of compliance and shared responsibility in achieving a safer and more competitive global supply chain,” Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.
Through these stakeholder engagements, the Bureau reaffirms its commitment to aligning with the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, ensuring a secure, modern, and globally trusted trade facilitation system.
