
In June this year, APM Terminals India became one of India’s first inland cargo service providers to receive the internationally recognised security standard, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), from the World Customs Organization. The aim of the AEO program is to prevent unlawful trade across borders and facilitate legitimate trade designates.
The AEO certification acknowledges APM Terminals India, which operates under the brand APM Terminals Inland Services, South Asia, as a ‘secure’ and ‘reliable’ trade partner for global supply chains. As such, it claims it can offer higher levels of efficiency and faster export-import services.
“The certification is a validation of our long-standing values and commitment towards safety and security,” explains Ajit Venkatraman, managing director, APM Terminals Inland Services, South Asia. “In addition, this internationally recognised security standard enables APM Terminals India to provide a distinct competitive edge to our clients by offering world-class facilities, ease of doing business and efficient service deliveries.”
AEO certification means that the terminals’ customers will experience fewer physical inspections of imported/exported goods, faster release of shipments, preferential treatment by Customs Authorities and deferred payment of duties.
Previously only applicable to exporters/ importers, the certification has recently been replaced by a single tier certification applicable to logistics providers, terminal operators, customs brokers and warehouse operators.