Ireland is the latest country in SEKO Logistics’ European network to achieve full certification as an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). SEKO Logistics’ operations in the Netherlands and Denmark are already AEO-approved, and France and Germany will be the next countries in its network to gain certification as part of the company’s target to gain AEO status in all European Union countries where SEKO operates.

The AEO accreditation standard issued by customs administrators in the EU certifies that a business has met the required standards in relation to its security and management systems, and is a compliant operator in international trade.

Martin Cunningham, who established SEKO Logistics in Ireland with business partner Terry Allen in 2007, said: “Customs and revenue compliance is a critical element of the delivery process and we take our responsibilities extremely seriously. AEO certification is important for our customers as it provides the assurance that SEKO Logistics is not only delivering a fast and reliable service but also one that is fully customs and revenue compliant.”

SEKO Logistics has been at the forefront of moves to further improve air cargo security in the United States and globally and was one of the first two freight companies to participate in the Transportation Security Administration’s Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) programme in the US. SEKO’s commitment to the ACAS pilot and its expertise in global freight transport and logistics has enabled its compliance team to have a direct impact on how the programme is being designed and implemented, and to be part of the dialogue between industry and customs officials.

In March, SEKO MedTec Solutions, which delivers SEKO Logistics’ specialist offering to the medical and technology sectors, announced the opening of a new European Control Center in Galway, Ireland, to spearhead its expansion in the $500 billion medical device market.