Page 180 - "Green Investments and financial technologies: opportunities and challenges for Uzbekistan" International Scientific and Practical Conference

“Yashil investitsiyalar va moliyaviy texnologiyalar: O‘zbekiston uchun imkoniyatlar va muammolar” mavzusida xalqaro
ilmiy-amaliy anjuman materiallari to‘plami (Toshkent, JIDU, 2025-yil 7-may)

enabling consistent application of the program. With the AEO framework integral
to the EU's customs modernization strategy, it plays a crucial role in balancing trade
facilitation with stringent security and compliance standards, reinforcing the EU’s
position in global trade networks.

China: Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) System – Classified
Management of Enterprises

China’s implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator system is
embedded in its “Classified Management of Enterprises” framework, administered
by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). Officially initiated in
2008 and upgraded in line with the WCO SAFE Framework in 2014, China’s AEO
regime classifies enterprises into four categories: Advanced Certified Enterprises
(AEO), General-Credit Enterprises, Discredited Enterprises, and Dishonest
Enterprises. Only Advanced Certified Enterprises receive AEO status and the
associated international benefits. To qualify, companies must demonstrate a strong
compliance history, robust financial standing, advanced internal controls, and
comprehensive supply chain security practices. As of mid-2023, China had over
3,800 AEO-certified enterprises, representing around 30% of the country’s total
import and export value.

China’s AEO-certified companies benefit from streamlined customs clearance
procedures, significantly reduced inspection rates, priority processing, and dedicated
customs coordinators. Additionally, they gain preferential treatment under China’s
growing network of Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs). As of 2023, China
has signed MRAs with over 20 economies, including the EU, Singapore, South
Korea, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Russia, accounting for over 50% of its total
trade volume. These MRAs reduce duplicative security checks and enhance customs
cooperation. China has also established the “China International Trade Single
Window” platform to digitally integrate AEO procedures, making certification and
compliance monitoring more efficient.

China’s emphasis on digitalization, risk-based control, and international
interoperability positions its AEO program as a central pillar in its customs
modernization strategy. Furthermore, the Chinese government has actively
promoted the AEO concept among businesses, especially large state-owned
enterprises and multinational corporations, to improve trade facilitation and bolster
global supply chain competitiveness. This approach underscores China's intent to
align with global trade norms while strategically leveraging AEOs to strengthen its
role in international commerce.

Conclusion: Comparative Reflections on AEO Programs in the United States,
European Union, and China

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