Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) / Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT)

The events in the USA on 11 September 2001 significantly raised the profile of international Security issues, not only for counter terrorism purposes, but also in the fight against organized Crime and other threats to society.

AEO is the European Union’s response to the need to secure the international supply chain and ultimately expects to lead to mutual recognition of similar systems across third countries such as The Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT) scheme which operates in the USA.

The threat of terrorism and heightened concerns regarding security are bringing about significant changes to international trade. “K” Line gives a high priority to security and has traditionally supported industry and government efforts to improve supply chain security. “K” Line moved quickly to become C-TPAT certified and validated. In addition, we are a member of the World Shipping Council (WSC), a Washington, D.C. based trade association representing over 40 liner shipping companies. Through WSC, the liner industry has cooperated closely with national governments to provide critical feedback and develop effective supply chain security initiatives.

“K” Line has developed a Global Security Team drawing members from key locations in Asia and Europe. We ensure high standards of operational security by reviewing and updating our security programs regularly and by working with our customers, intermodal transportation partners, marine terminals and ship managers to improve security awareness.

One of the most important criteria relating to security and safety standards in relation to business partners is the requirement for AEO to have implemented measures allowing a clear identification of his business partners in order to secure international supply chain."

It also of course follows that as a carrier K Line is dependent on the security standards of their business partners in order to ensure the security of the goods in their custody.

The specific areas concerning goods, which are carried by K Line for which co-operation is sought from our Customers and their counterparts include:

• That they are produced, stored, prepared and loaded in secure business premises and secure loading and shipping areas.
• That they are protected against unauthorized interference during production, storage, preparation, loading and pre shipment transport.
• That reliable staff are employed for the production, storage, preparation, loading and transport of these goods.

On request K Line supplies high security seals exceeding ISO PAS 17712 for loading containers. We have written seal inventory control procedures.