The need to facilitate trade while keeping the supply chain secure has become very important in international trade today. As a result, the traditional role of Customs has evolved over the years from being gatekeepers to ensuring the security of the whole supply chain among several other responsibilities. The WCO has responded to the call by introducing the Authorised Economic Operator program which aims at facilitating trade through enhanced cooperation between business and Customs. The program was well received especially in the developed world and some developing countries but the same cannot be said about Africa. This Trade Brief examines the challenges that are causing the low uptake of the program in Africa and possible solutions that Customs Administrations in Africa can adopt to fully benefit from this Trade Facilitation initiative.

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