BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 2. Customs officials
from Uzbekistan and China have agreed to deepen cooperation on the
development of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, a
key trade-facilitation mechanism designed to simplify customs
procedures for trusted businesses engaged in international trade,
Trend reports via the
Uzbek Customs Committee.
The discussions took place during a meeting at Uzbekistan’s
Customs Committee with a delegation from the General Administration
of Customs of China.
During the talks, the two sides reviewed the implementation of
their agreement on the mutual recognition of AEO programs and
assessed the benefits the arrangement provides to companies
involved in foreign trade. Officials also discussed opportunities
to further enhance the program and expand its practical impact on
cross-border commerce.
Participants exchanged experiences on the incentives available
to companies holding AEO status, as well as on improving
risk-management systems, expanding the use of digital technologies
and strengthening information-sharing mechanisms between customs
authorities.
Separate working-level discussions involving specialists from
both countries focused on priority areas for the future development
of the AEO system. The experts also considered a range of practical
proposals aimed at supporting compliant and trustworthy businesses
engaged in international trade.
As part of the event, representatives of the two customs
administrations signed the protocol of the fifth meeting of the
Uzbekistan–China Working Group on Authorized Economic
Operators.
Officials from both countries said the document would contribute
to strengthening mutual trust and strategic cooperation between the
two customs services, while helping to streamline trade procedures
and create more favorable conditions for businesses operating in
international markets.
The meeting reflects the broader effort by Uzbekistan and China
to facilitate trade, improve customs efficiency and support growing
economic ties between the two countries.
