The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) in Costa Rica is a voluntary certification that recognizes companies participating in foreign trade and the international logistics chain as trusted partners before the customs authority. This recognition is granted to legal entities that comply with the requirements established by the General Directorate of Customs, demonstrating a high level of security, compliance, and traceability in their operations.

As emphasized by Luisa Fernanda Hernandez Romero, “The Authorized Economic Operator goes beyond a certification: it represents a culture of excellence, compliance, and trust, where every process and every individual contribute to strengthening the security and the efficiency of the logistics chain.”

The purpose of the AEO program is to strengthen the security and reliability of the logistics chain, ensuring that certified companies maintain proper controls in their processes and collaborate with authorities in risk prevention. By obtaining certification, companies commit to continuous improvement and receive significant benefits that facilitate their commercial and customs operations.

Benefits for Certified Companies

AEO companies in Costa Rica gain access to a series of competitive and operational advantages, including:

• Official recognition as a safe and reliable operator.
• Simplification of customs procedures and reduction of physical or documentary inspections.
• Priority in control processes and the possibility of requesting inspections in designated locations.
• Opportunity to obtain international mutual recognition, which streamlines logistics in markets with which Costa Rica maintains customs cooperation agreements.
• Strengthening of corporate image and increased trust from business partners and authorities.

These advantages allow companies to reduce time, optimize costs, and increase competitiveness while consolidating their reputation as actors committed to sound logistics and customs practices.

The Role of Shipping Lines in the AEO Chain

Shipping lines play a key role within the AEO ecosystem, as they are responsible for international transportation and cargo traceability. Their experience in maritime security, advance information handling, regulatory compliance, and document management directly contributes to meeting the standards required by the program.

Through practices such as container verification, secure electronic data exchange, and alignment with International Maritime Organization (IMO) protocols, shipping lines reinforce chain security and help exporters and importers operate under parameters of trust and transparency.

Strategic Importance of the AEO

The implementation of the AEO in Costa Rica represents an important step toward safer, more efficient, and more sustainable international trade. This program promotes a business culture based on trust, regulatory compliance, and transparency—essential pillars for the development of open and competitive economies.

Beyond operational benefits, the AEO strengthens the partnership between the public and private sectors, improves traceability, and helps prevent risks such as smuggling or customs fraud. In a global environment where trust is a strategic value, pursuing AEO certification is a smart decision for companies seeking growth and consolidation in international markets.