Mutual Recognition of EU and Turkey Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programs
December 5, 2025
TRADE NEWS
Within the framework of the Customs Cooperation Committee operating under the Association Agreement between the European Community and Turkey, a significant development has taken place regarding the mutual recognition of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program of the European Union and the Authorized Economic Operator Status (AEO) program implemented by the Republic of Turkey.
In this context, Council Decision (EU) 2025/2516, adopted by the Council of the European Union on December 4, 2025, determined the position to be pursued on behalf of the EU within the Customs Cooperation Committee regarding the mutual recognition process.
As a result of joint assessments, it has been determined that the EU and Turkey's AEO programs are equivalent and compatible in terms of security, control, and compliance criteria. In line with these assessments, the Customs Cooperation Committee anticipates that the mutual recognition decision will enter into force in 2026.
With the entry into force of the decision, it is expected that the security level of commercial transactions between the EU and Turkey will increase, customs processes will be accelerated, and administrative cooperation between the two parties will be further strengthened.
The announcement and full text of the relevant Council Decision can be accessed via the link below: