The Port of Tilbury, London’s major port, has this week been awarded an internationally recognised quality mark – the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) - issued by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The Port of Tilbury is the first multipurpose port in the UK to receive full AEO status for security and customs simplification processes. The accreditation follows a full site audit at the port by the HMRC which thoroughly reviewed the port’s operational processes, IT, security, storage, procurement and HR procedures.

The AEO accreditation recognises that the customs controls and procedures at the port are efficient and compliant and most importantly, secure.

Commenting on the award, Paul Dale, Asset and Site Director at the Port of Tilbury said: “This is excellent and significant news for the Port of Tilbury as we are the first multipurpose port in the UK to be recognised with full AEO status. We have always provided an efficient and secure process, but this accreditation also gives our customers the reassurance that we have robust processes in place.”

Charles Hammond, Chief Executive of Forth Ports, owners of The Port of Tilbury said: “We are thrilled that the Port of Tilbury has been awarded full AEO status. As the UK’s moves towards Brexit, this internationally recognised award is extremely positive for both the port and our diverse customer base who will continue to benefit from working with us under this quality accreditation.”