Standards Comparison

    AEO

    Voluntary
    2008

    WCO framework for secure supply chain facilitation

    VS

    ISO 27017

    Voluntary
    2015

    International code of practice for cloud security controls.

    Quick Verdict

    AEO provides customs facilitation for low-risk traders via compliance validation, while ISO 27017 offers cloud security guidance within ISO 27001 ISMS. Companies adopt AEO for faster trade clearance; ISO 27017 for proving secure cloud practices to customers.

    Customs Security

    AEO

    Authorized Economic Operator (WCO SAFE Framework)

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    6-12 months

    Key Features

    • Low-risk customs status for facilitation benefits
    • Harmonized SAQ criteria A-M for compliance
    • End-to-end supply chain security requirements
    • Mutual Recognition Arrangements across borders
    • Continuous monitoring and internal audits
    Cloud Security

    ISO 27017

    ISO/IEC 27017:2015 Code of practice for cloud security

    Cost
    €€€
    Complexity
    Medium
    Implementation Time
    6-12 months

    Key Features

    • Clarifies shared responsibilities between CSPs and CSCs
    • Adds 7 cloud-specific CLD controls for multi-tenancy
    • Provides guidance on 37 ISO 27002 controls for cloud
    • Addresses VM hardening and segregation in virtual environments
    • Enables customer monitoring of cloud service activities

    Detailed Analysis

    A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.

    AEO Details

    What It Is

    Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a voluntary certification program within the WCO SAFE Framework. It designates low-risk businesses in international trade for facilitation benefits. Scope covers all supply chain actors; primary purpose secures trade while expediting legitimate flows. Methodology is risk-based, using SAQ criteria A-M for validation.

    Key Components

    • Four pillars: customs compliance, record management/internal controls, financial solvency, supply chain security.
    • 13 SAQ groups spanning compliance history to continuous improvement.
    • Built on SAFE Pillars 1-3; requires internal audits and KPIs.
    • Certification via customs validation, with re-assessments.

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Reduces inspections, clearance times, costs (e.g., $500-1000/container avoided).
    • Enables MRAs for global benefits.
    • Enhances reputation, tender qualification, resilience.
    • Manages risks of suspension/revocation.

    Implementation Overview

    • Gap analysis, SAQ completion, process design, training, mock audits.
    • Cross-functional transformation; 6-12 months typical.
    • Applies globally to importers/exporters; rigorous site validation required. (178 words)

    ISO 27017 Details

    What It Is

    ISO/IEC 27017:2015 is a code of practice extending ISO/IEC 27002 for cloud services. It provides implementation guidance for information security controls in cloud environments, focusing on shared responsibilities between cloud service providers (CSPs) and customers (CSCs). Its risk-based approach adapts generic controls to cloud-specific risks like multi-tenancy.

    Key Components

    • Guidance on 37 ISO/IEC 27002 controls plus 7 additional cloud-specific CLD controls (e.g., segregation, VM hardening, asset removal).
    • Covers domains like access control, operations security, supplier relationships.
    • Built on ISO/IEC 27001 ISMS; not standalone certification.

    Why Organizations Use It

    • Addresses cloud gaps in ISO 27001 for risk management.
    • Meets procurement demands, regulatory alignment (e.g., GDPR).
    • Builds trust, differentiates CSPs, reduces incidents via clear roles.

    Implementation Overview

    • Integrate into existing ISO 27001 via risk assessment, control mapping.
    • Key activities: document shared responsibilities, configure monitoring, audit cloud setups.
    • Suits CSPs/CSCs globally; joint audits in 9-12 months.

    Key Differences

    Scope

    AEO
    Supply chain security & customs compliance
    ISO 27017
    Cloud-specific information security controls

    Industry

    AEO
    International trade & logistics globally
    ISO 27017
    Cloud service providers & customers worldwide

    Nature

    AEO
    Voluntary customs partnership program
    ISO 27017
    Guidance code of practice for ISMS

    Testing

    AEO
    Risk-based site validation & revalidation
    ISO 27017
    ISO 27001 audit integration, no standalone cert

    Penalties

    AEO
    Status suspension/revocation, lost benefits
    ISO 27017
    No legal penalties, certification withdrawal

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about AEO and ISO 27017

    AEO FAQ

    ISO 27017 FAQ

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