For customs declarants, understanding Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) and the use of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) codes is essential for efficient cross-border trade. MRAs allow customs administrations to recognize each other’s AEO programs, while AEO codes serve as unique identifiers for certified businesses. Together, they streamline import/export procedures and reduce delays.
This blog explains how declarants can leverage MRAs and correctly use AEO codes in TradeNet for both domestic and international shipments.
What is an AEO Code?
AEO Codes are issued by a country’s customs administration to businesses certified under the AEO program. These codes uniquely identify AEO cargo and help customs authorities track shipments efficiently.
In Singapore, AEO-certified companies under the STP (Secure Trade Partnership) or STP-Plus programs are issued a 17-character alphanumeric code in the format: AEOSGXXXXXXXXXXXX
This code is used to identify shipments both domestically and with MRA partner countries.
Using Your AEO Code in TradeNet
Declarants handling STP or STP-Plus shipments must correctly declare their AEO code in TradeNet import and export permit declarations.
Declaration Structure in TradeNet:
Field | Information to Declare |
Customs Procedure Code (CPC) | AEO |
Processing Code 1 (PC1) | SG |
Processing Code 2 (PC2) | XXXXXXXXXXXX (your unique code) |
This ensures your shipment is properly identified as an AEO cargo domestically.
Declaring AEO Codes for MRA Partner Exports
For STP-Plus companies exporting to MRA partner countries, it’s important to provide your AEO code to overseas importers so that it can be declared in their import permit.
- Hong Kong (HK) and New Zealand (NZ): AEO status is automatically recognized when importers declare your company as the supplier.
- United States (US): AEO status is recognized when importers use your Manufacturer Identification (MID) number in their import declaration.
- If it’s your first shipment to the US, contact your US importer to obtain your MID number.
- Inform your Singapore Customs Account Manager once you have the MID number.
This ensures that your shipments enjoy the benefits of MRAs, such as faster customs clearance and reduced inspections.
Importing from an MRA Partner’s AEO
When importing goods from an AEO-certified business in an MRA partner country, declarants must include the partner’s AEO code in TradeNet:
Declaration Structure in TradeNet:
Field | Information to Declare |
Customs Procedure Code (CPC) | AEO |
Processing Code 1 (PC1) | AU, CA, CN, GB, HK, JP, NZ, KR, TH, TW, or US |
Processing Code 2 (PC2) | Partner’s AEO code (or MID for US shipments) |
- TradeNet allows up to 5 entries under the PC1 and PC2 fields.
- STP-Plus companies can declare both their own AEO code and the partner’s AEO code in the same permit.
Important: Only the AEO code of the importer, exporter, or freight forwarder for the specific shipment should be declared. Freight forwarders providing permit declaration services only should not declare their own Singapore AEO code.
Practical Tips for Declarants
- Always Verify AEO Codes – Double-check your company’s AEO code and that of your MRA partner before declaring.
- Use TradeNet Correctly – Fill in CPC, PC1, and PC2 fields as required to avoid permit rejection.
- Coordinate with Overseas Partners – Ensure your importers or suppliers declare the AEO code correctly in their country.
- Stay Updated – MRAs and AEO procedures are periodically updated, so regular consultation with Singapore Customs is recommended.
By correctly using AEO codes, declarants can ensure shipments are recognized domestically and internationally, gaining the full benefits of faster customs clearance, priority treatment, and reduced inspections. For customs declarants, the combination of MRAs and AEO codes is a powerful tool for trade facilitation. Understanding how to declare your own code and your MRA partner’s code in TradeNet ensures compliance, reduces delays, and streamlines cross-border trade.
Declarants who master these procedures can enhance their efficiency, provide better service to clients, and contribute to a trusted global supply chain.
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