Tax Flash no. 133


EU and Türkiye Strengthen Customs Cooperation Through New AEO Mutual Recognition Agreement

On 16th July 2026, the European Commission (DG TAXUD) announced that the EU–Türkiye Customs Cooperation Committee had adopted a decision on the mutual recognition of the EU and Türkiye Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programmes. The adoption follows Council Decision (EU) 2025/2516, published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 11 December 2025, which established the EU position and included the draft text of the Committee Decision.
The adopted decision provides for the mutual recognition of AEO status granted by the customs authorities of the European Union and Türkiye. Once the necessary electronic exchange of information between the two customs administrations becomes operational, customs authorities on both sides will be able to recognize trusted traders when carrying out customs risk analysis and security controls.

Key Benefits for AEO Holders
Businesses holding AEO status are expected to benefit from several customs facilitations, including:
  1. Reduced customs controls and security inspections;
  2. Faster customs clearance procedures;
  3. Greater predictability of cross-border movements;
  4. Improved supply chain efficiency;
  5. Enhanced cooperation between EU and Turkish customs authorities;
  6. The possibility of additional facilitation measures in the future, such as simplified border procedures and priority treatment during major supply chain disruptions.
Key Elements of the Decision
Beyond the operational benefits, the decision establishes a comprehensive framework governing the implementation of the mutual recognition arrangement. In particular, it includes provisions on:
  1. Maintaining the compatibility of the EU and Turkish AEO programmes;
  2. Cooperation between customs authorities on the management of AEO status;
  3. Electronic exchange of information on authorized economic operators;
  4. Protection of personal data exchanged between the parties;
  5. Regular monitoring and review of the implementation through the EU–Türkiye Customs Cooperation Committee.
 
Entry into Operation
The mutual recognition arrangement will become operational once the structured electronic exchange of information on authorized economic operators has been established between the European Union and Türkiye. Until then, both customs administrations will continue the technical preparations required for its implementation.

Why This Matters
Türkiye remains one of the European Union's key trading partners. By recognizing each other's trusted trader programmes, the EU and Türkiye are expected to:
  • Reduce administrative burdens for trusted traders;
  • Simplify customs formalities;
  • Increase the efficiency and predictability of customs procedures;
  • Strengthen the resilience and security of international supply chains.
Businesses trading with Türkiye, particularly those already holding AEO status or considering applying for it, should closely monitor the implementation of the mutual recognition arrangement in order to take full advantage of the forthcoming customs facilitations.