Important Development in the Mutual Recognition Agreement of AEO Between the EU and Türkiye
On 16 July 2026, the long-awaited decision on the mutual recognition of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programmes was adopted by the EU–Türkiye Customs Cooperation Committee (CCC), and the European Commission welcomed this development.
Rooted in the 1963 Ankara Agreement and the 1970 Additional Protocol, and in force since 1995, the EU–Türkiye Customs Union has provided the legal framework for this important step, which further strengthens customs cooperation while enhancing trade relations between the two sides.
Operational Process and Its Impact on Trade
The decision will enter into force once the structured information exchange mechanism concerning authorised economic operators has been established. Once implemented, it is expected to contribute to faster, more secure and more predictable customs procedures.
As is well known, AEO-certified companies already benefit from various customs simplifications under their respective national legislation, enabling them to complete customs procedures more efficiently. The key significance of this development is that these advantages will also be recognised by the other party through the mutual recognition mechanism.
Under the agreement, companies holding AEO status in one party will have that status taken into account by the customs administration of the other party. Consequently, AEO status will be considered during risk assessment and customs control procedures, allowing both Turkish and EU AEO holders to benefit from faster border procedures while further strengthening the security of the EU–Türkiye supply chain.
Benefits of Authorised Economic Operator Status
Once the agreement becomes operational, AEO-certified companies will enjoy not only domestic simplifications but also faster and more efficient customs procedures in trade with the EU.
Against this background, it is highly advisable for importers and exporters that have not yet obtained AEO status to consider initiating their AEO application process as a strategic priority. The mutual recognition of AEO programmes is expected to become an important competitive advantage for companies engaged in EU–Türkiye trade.
Note: This article has been prepared for informational purposes based on the official announcement published by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union on 16 July 2026.
Link:
EU and Türkiye: a new agreement to strengthen customs cooperation - Taxation and Customs Union