On August 3, 2023, the Third Resolution of Amendments to the General Foreign Trade Rules (RGCE) was published in the Official Journal of the Federation, which introduces significant changes to the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) and Certified Trading Partner Programs.
The main modifications include the mandatory creation of a Security Committee to oversee compliance with AEO Program standards, and the designation of Points of Contact within the company with in-depth knowledge of the program's requirements. These points of contact will be required to maintain continuous communication with the competent authority.
In addition, companies should update their plans for reacting to critical events, such as cyber attacks and driver hijackings, with annual testing. Alarm and video surveillance systems must be regularly inspected to ensure their effectiveness.
Another new requirement is the obligation to conduct a risk analysis of business partners to identify possible links to money laundering and terrorist financing activities. Documented policies must also be implemented to ensure that goods are not sourced from forced labor.
Transportation security must be strengthened for all types of vehicles, including pickup trucks and vans. In addition, the Information Technology Security sub-standard is strengthened, which now requires sharing security threat information with business partners and conducting annual reviews of policies and processes.
Anomalies or suspicious situations must be reported immediately to security personnel, business partners and AEO Program specialist. Security processes should be reviewed and updated annually, with evidence of implementation of new requirements.
Certified companies must submit an updated Company Profile within six months. New applications must comply with changes since registration.
At CMB Asociados, we are ready to assist you in adapting to these requirements and reporting compliance. Contact us for expert advice to ensure proper compliance with the new regulations.