Port of Leith obtains AEO status
Leading compliance specialists, VARTAN, has successfully guided Forth Ports in obtaining Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status for part of its Scottish operations, as part of its post-Brexit plans.
This newly awarded certification makes these the first ports in Scotland to benefit from full AEO status. The ports include the largest container port in Scotland, Grangemouth the largest enclosed deep water port, Leith and a thriving Ro/Ro service in Rosyth.
Demonstrating the robustness of the port’s operations in regards to international trade, this quality mark is designed to facilitate legitimate trade, reinforce safety and security procedures and standardise customs controls; all via an electronic environment under the Union Customs Code.
Successful accreditation brings a raft of benefits to the applicant, depending on the nature of their international trade operations and the type of AEO status they apply for. These include a reduced risk score with HMRC, fewer physical and document-based controls, reduced financial guarantees, prior notification in case of selection for customs control, and
access to mutual recognition agreements.
Scotland’s largest container port Grangemouth
Miles Vartan elaborates: “The benefits don’t stop there. All companies involved in the international supply chain today are expected to demonstrate the highest standards across all aspects of its operations by both the authorities and its business partners.”
Commenting on the accreditation, Stuart Wallace, chief operating officer at Forth Ports says: “This is great news for our Scottish ports and the accreditation publicly reinforces our commitment to efficient and secure processes across all our operations. It also gives our clients greater reassurance and forms a key part of our overall planning for Brexit.”
Port of Leith
Miles Vartan concludes: “We have worked with a number of port groups in addition to other elements of the supply chain such as manufacturers and shipping lines. Both HMRC and Border Force are now actively encouraging businesses involved in international trade to consider applying for AEO. Those who have achieved AEO status are already reaping the benefits of this highly respected standard; Post-Brexit I have a feeling it may turn out to be a trump card as our government starts to negotiate additional Mutual Recognition Agreements.”
For further information please visit: www.vartanconsultancy.com
