The WCO has published the 2019 edition of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Compendium, an annually updated study which gives an overview of existing AEO programmes (already implemented or under development or implementation) around the world, comprising information on accreditation criteria, procedures and benefits, and with a list of Mutual Recognition Arrangements/Agreements (MRAs) signed so far between countries to mutually recognize AEO authorizations granted by their respective Customs administrations.

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A study from the World Bank analyses the maritime capacity in the East and Southern Africa (ESA) Region, concluding that although freight volumes have been growing at 9 percent per year through some of the key ports (with transit consignments to land-locked countries growing at 16.5 percent per year until relatively recently), many of such ports are still affected with high ship waiting times, high berth occupancies, and congestion on both the land and maritime side, all factors contributing to increased transport costs.

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