HK Customs implements Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Authorized Economic Operator Programmes with Japan Customs

31 Oct 2016

The Hong Kong-Japan Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programmes will become operational with effect from today (October 31), signifying a milestone in the co-operation between Hong Kong and Japan Customs in promoting international supply chain security as well as facilitating secure and efficient global trade.

The Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) signed the MRA with the Customs Administration of Japan in Hong Kong in August 2016. Under the MRA, both administrations recognise the compatibility of the supply chain security measures implemented by companies certified under the Hong Kong and Japan AEO Programmes, and provide clearance facilitation to the AEOs of the other side, such as reduced examination or prioritised clearance.

To enjoy the MRA benefits, the Hong Kong AEO, or its agent, should provide its Hong Kong AEO number to the importer in Japan for making declaration to Japan Customs so as to enjoy appropriate clearance facilitation in Japan.

Alternatively, the Hong Kong importer should accurately input the name and address of the Japan AEO exporter in its submission of electronic advance cargo information to the C&ED so that the imported shipments can be identified for enjoying the MRA benefits accordingly.

This is the fourth MRA that the C&ED has put into full implementation following those with the Korea, Mainland and Singapore Customs. The facilitation measures under the Hong Kong-Japan AEO MRA not only help local companies strengthen their trade competitiveness and marketability in overseas markets but also bring more business opportunities to the import/export and logistics industries, thereby sustaining Hong Kong's long-term economic development.

Ends/Monday, October 31, 2016

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