By Evelyn ARTHUR
Meridian Port Services Ltd. (MPS) has attained certification as an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), a recognition by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
This positions MPS as one of the first nine companies in the country to attain this prestigious status, reinforcing its strategic role as an economic enabler and global trade facilitator.
Speaking on the achievement, Head of Legal and Compliance at MPS, Frank Ebow Brown, indicated that AEO certification reflects MPS’s reputation as a trusted partner in customs clearance and international trade, which manifests the company’s firm commitment to integrity, transparency and compliance with both national regulations and global standards, aligning with their corporate values of integrity and transparency.
He said the AEO status signals MPS’s ability to streamline processes while ensuring the utmost security and reliability in trade facilitation.
“To qualify, MPS underwent an exhaustive certification process, including a rigorous audit by customs authorities. This involved demonstrating conformity to stringent standards in record-keeping, financial solvency and security measures,” he said.
Mr. Brown praised the collaborative efforts that made this accomplishment possible.
“We appreciate the consistent support of the GRA – Customs Division for their pivotal role in realising this goal. By identifying and addressing legal barriers hindering transhipment trade, they have worked with us to amend these challenges, ensuring a robust and fluid transhipment process aligned with global practices,” he stated .
The AEO programme, implemented under the guidance of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and in support of the World Trade Organization’s mission, aims to enhance trade facilitation, streamline logistics and strengthen Ghana’s position in the global trading community.
Chief Executive Officer of MPS, Mohamed Samara, said: “This monumental step aligns perfectly with our mission to realise the full potential of this remarkable infrastructure. Trade facilitation is a cornerstone of economic transformation for many nations, and Ghana is no exception”.
He further emphasised that this certification strengthens their partnership with Customs by fostering a transparent and predictable trading environment, an essential foundation for the growth and sustainability of the logistics industry.
He reaffirms their dedicated to enhancing their services to meet the evolving needs of their local and global customers.
Benefits of AEO status
With AEO certification, MPS’s new status introduces global benefits, including: faster customs clearance, enhanced security, operational efficiency and global Integration.
This means accelerated procedures and reduced inspection rates for imports and exports; recognition as a secure and safe business partner in international trade; minimised delays and costs through optimised supply chain processes; and alignment with international best practices for seamless collaboration with global stakeholders.
