Times Of Swaziland: NTFC ADVANCES WORK ON AUTHORISED ECONOMIC OPERATOR PROGRAMME

NTFC ADVANCES WORK ON AUTHORISED ECONOMIC OPERATOR PROGRAMME
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 17/11/2024 16:41:00


MBABANE – The National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) of Eswatini, in
partnership with the SACU Secretariat, is advancing its work on the Authorised
Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.
This initiative, currently piloted by the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS), seeks
to streamline and secure trade processes within Eswatini and across the SACU
region. The AEO Programme is a significant step towards simplifying Customs
procedures, facilitating smoother cross-border trade, and reducing associated
risks. The NTFC will be hosting a two-day consultation, taking place at Royal
Villas Hotel in Ezulwini, with active participation from other government
agencies (OGAs) to discuss the integration of a ‘single government AEO
Programme’ across SACU member States.
Key highlights of the national consultations:
*Objective of the Programme: The AEO Programme aims to enhance trade
facilitation by accrediting compliant and secure economic operators, resulting
in faster and more predictable Customs clearance. Once expanded, the programme
will enable OGAs to collaborate closely with Customs authorities, establishing
Eswatini as a trusted trade partner.  	*Day One Focus: The agenda includes an
overview of the SACU Regional AEO Programme, presentations on the role of OGAs,
and discussions on draft rules and processes of the AEO. Participants will also
examine the ‘As-Is’ processes within ERS and outline the mutual recognition
arrangement that links AEO programmes across SACU.  	*Day Two Focus: Emphasis
will be placed on risk management strategies within Customs and across various
government agencies. The day will also include an accreditation ceremony for
approved AEO applicants, recognising key businesses that have met the
programme’s compliance standards.
Expanding the AEO programme aligns with NTFC’s strategic roadmap goals and the
SACU Strategic Plan to drive inclusive, streamlined, and secure cross-border
trade. These national consultations mark an important milestone in advancing the
AEO Programme in Eswatini and underscore the commitment of the NTFC to align
with international best practices for trade facilitation.