An Authorized Economic Operator, or AEO, refers to a party involved in the international movement of goods duly accredited by a national customs administration as complying with trade facilitation standards and/or supply chain security standards. Being an accredited AEO involves benefits primarily on trade facilitation, such as fewer customs clearance processes and physical inspections, and a dedicated lane.

Prior to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the US, the objectives of customs administrations around the world focused on levying and collecting duties and taxes, facilitating trade, and controlling borders. The 9/11 attack prompted the World Customs Organization (WCO) to incorporate in its supply chain standards the matter of security, which gave birth to the current WCO SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework).