20/4/2016

LOCAL: Australia and Indonesia to step up supply-chain security co-operation

AUSTRALIA and Indonesia last week signed a statement of intent to increase co-operation on the countries’ Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs.

AEO programs are meant to increase efficiency in international trade by approving traders, shippers and brokers as complying with accepted supply-chain security standards.

The agreement signed by Indonesian Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DGCE) and Australian Border Force commissioner Roman Quaedvlieg covers mutual technical assistance, capacity building and exchange of information between the countries’ AEOs.

Mr Quaedvlieg said the agreement was an important step in strengthening Australia’s partnership with Indonesia.

“We are working closely with Indonesia to streamline trade and enhance supply-chain security between our two countries,” he said.

The commissioner formally thanked Mr Pambudi for the DGCE’s assistance in tackling trans-national crime such as smuggling, citing specifically Operation Wardite last year, which resulted in the seizure of 71 tonnes of illicit loose leaf tobacco at Australia’s border.

“We appreciate the assistance provided by DGCE under Operation Wardite, and continue to co-operate closely to tackle trade in illicit goods,” Mr Quaedvlieg said

Article by Ian Ackerman - Melbourne

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