AEO
WCO trusted trader program for secure trade facilitation
ISO 27018
International code for PII protection in public clouds.
Quick Verdict
AEO certifies low-risk supply chain operators for customs facilitation, while ISO 27018 extends ISO 27001 for cloud providers protecting PII. Companies adopt AEO for faster trade clearance; ISO 27018 for privacy assurance and procurement trust.
AEO
Authorized Economic Operator (WCO SAFE Framework)
Key Features
- Voluntary low-risk status speeds customs clearance
- 13 SAQ criteria A-M for compliance security
- Supply chain-wide security with partner controls
- Mutual Recognition Agreements enable cross-border benefits
- Continuous internal audits ensure ongoing compliance
ISO 27018
ISO/IEC 27018:2025 PII protection in public clouds
Key Features
- Extends ISO 27001 with cloud PII privacy controls
- Requires subprocessor transparency and location disclosure
- Prohibits marketing use of PII without consent
- Mandates breach notification to PII controllers
- Supports data subject rights like erasure and access
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 framework under the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, recognizing supply chain actors as low-risk partners. It aims to secure global trade while providing facilitation benefits through risk-based validation and partnerships with customs administrations.
Key Components
- Four pillars: customs compliance history, records/internal controls, financial solvency, supply chain security.
- 13 criteria groups (A-M) in harmonized Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ).
- Built on SAFE principles; includes cargo, premises, personnel, partner security.
- Certification via application, validation, and periodic re-assessment.
Why Organizations Use It
- **Trade facilitationfewer inspections, priority treatment, faster clearance.
- Cost savings (e.g., avoided container exams ~$500-1000 each).
- MRAs for cross-border benefits; reputational trust.
- Risk mitigation and competitive advantage in global supply chains.
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis, SAQ completion, procedures/training, security hardening.
- Cross-functional project: 6-12 months typical.
- For importers/exporters worldwide; requires ongoing monitoring/audits.
ISO 27018 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 27018:2025 is a code of practice extending ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27002 specifically for protecting personally identifiable information (PII) processed by public cloud service providers (CSPs) acting as PII processors. Its scope focuses on cloud-specific privacy risks like multi-tenancy and cross-border data flows, employing a risk-based approach integrated into an Information Security Management System (ISMS).
Key Components
- ~25–30 additional privacy controls covering consent, purpose limitation, transparency, and accountability.
- Aligned with principles like data minimization, accuracy, and security safeguards.
- Mapped to ISO 27001 Annex A (93 controls in organizational, people, physical, technological themes).
- Assessed via ISO 27001 audits; no standalone certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Builds customer trust, accelerates procurement, aids GDPR Article 28 compliance.
- Reduces security questionnaire friction, improves cyber insurance terms.
- Manages processor risks, enhances reputation among hyperscalers.
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis on existing ISMS, update Statement of Applicability.
- Key activities: subprocessor transparency, breach notification, staff training.
- Applies to CSPs all sizes/industries; ~$10k–$20k incremental cost.
- Annual third-party surveillance audits required. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | AEO | ISO 27018 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Supply chain security and customs compliance | |
| Industry | Global trade, logistics, supply chain actors | |
| Nature | Voluntary customs partnership certification | |
| Testing | Risk-based site validation, periodic re-validation | |
| Penalties | Status suspension/revocation, lost benefits |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AEO and ISO 27018
AEO FAQ
ISO 27018 FAQ
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