AEO
WCO certification for low-risk supply chain security
ISO 28000
International standard for supply chain security management systems
Quick Verdict
AEO provides customs facilitation for low-risk traders via compliance validation, while ISO 28000 establishes comprehensive security management systems. Companies adopt AEO for faster border clearance; ISO 28000 for resilient supply chains and certification credibility.
AEO
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program
Key Features
- Low-risk certification reduces customs inspections
- Harmonized SAQ 13 criteria A-M validation
- Mutual Recognition Agreements cross-border benefits
- End-to-end supply chain security controls
- Continuous internal audits and monitoring
ISO 28000
ISO 28000:2022 Security management systems Requirements
Key Features
- Risk-based supply chain threat assessment and treatment
- PDCA cycle for continual security improvement
- Top management leadership and policy commitment
- Operational controls for suppliers and processes
- Integrated audits and performance evaluation
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 under the WCO SAFE Framework, recognizing businesses as low-risk in international goods movement. It fosters Customs-to-Business partnerships for supply chain security and trade facilitation. Core approach: risk-based self-assessment via SAQ and validation.
Key Components
- Pillars: compliance history, records/internal controls, financial solvency, security/safety
- 13 SAQ criteria groups (A-M) covering cargo, premises, personnel, partners, crisis management
- Built on SAFE standards with continuous improvement (Criterion M)
- Certification via customs validation, re-validation cycles
Why Organizations Use It
- Fewer inspections, priority clearance, cost savings (e.g., avoided exams)
- Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) for global benefits
- Risk mitigation, compliance assurance, reputational trust
- Competitive edge in tenders, supply chain resilience
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis, SOP design, security hardening, training, audits
- Cross-functional project lifecycle for supply chain actors
- Global applicability, jurisdiction-specific (e.g., EU UCC AEOC/AEOS)
- Risk-based validation, ongoing monitoring required
ISO 28000 Details
What It Is
ISO 28000:2022 is an international standard specifying requirements for a security management system (SMS) focused on supply chain security. It provides a risk-based framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving SMS to manage threats like theft, sabotage, and disruptions using a Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 cover context, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, and improvement.
- Emphasizes risk assessment (aligned with ISO 31000), operational controls, security plans, and supplier interdependencies.
- No fixed controls; tailored via risk treatment.
- Supports certification per ISO 28003.
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces security incidents and enhances resilience.
- Meets contractual, regulatory, and trade facilitation needs.
- Builds stakeholder trust and competitive edge.
- Integrates with ISO 9001, ISO 22301, ISO/IEC 27001.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk assessment, controls deployment, audits.
- Applicable to all sizes/sectors in supply chains.
- Involves training, documentation, internal audits, and optional third-party certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | AEO | ISO 28000 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Customs compliance, supply chain security, financial solvency | Holistic security management system across supply chain |
| Industry | International trade, importers/exporters, supply chain actors | All sectors with supply chains, logistics, manufacturing |
| Nature | Voluntary customs authorization program | Voluntary international certification standard |
| Testing | Customs validation, site visits, periodic re-validation | Internal audits, management review, third-party certification |
| Penalties | Status suspension/revocation, lost facilitation benefits | Loss of certification, no legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AEO and ISO 28000
AEO FAQ
ISO 28000 FAQ
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