New Delhi: Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), one of India’s leading steel producers, has been awarded the prestigious Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), Tier II accreditation by the Directorate of International Customs, New Delhi.
The recognition was officially conferred on June 9, 2025, to SAIL’s Executive Director (Logistics & Infrastructure) by the Principal Commissioner of the Directorate.
The AEO programme, an initiative by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aims to build a trustworthy partnership between the customs administration and the business community. This program incentivizes compliant, secure, and efficient trade practices by offering a suite of benefits to participating entities.
What the AEO Accreditation Means for SAIL
Being granted Tier II AEO status marks a significant achievement for SAIL, reflecting its high standards of internal control, regulatory compliance, and supply chain integrity.
This certification not only demonstrates SAIL’s ongoing commitment to robust trade practices but also elevates its stature on the international stage.
According to customs officials, AEO accreditation offers a competitive edge to companies in global trade. Among the numerous benefits, SAIL will now enjoy:
- Enhanced supply chain security
- Faster customs clearances
- Priority processing at ports and terminals
- Mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) with international customs organizations
- Access to global networking and knowledge-sharing platforms
Strengthening India’s Position in Global Steel Trade
SAIL’s inclusion in the AEO Tier II category adds further credibility to India’s ambition of being a secure and compliant trade partner in the global market. The move aligns with India’s broader trade facilitation goals and the government’s ‘Ease of Doing Business’ initiative.
The accreditation also serves as a strategic advantage for SAIL in its export operations, enabling the company to meet the growing demand for steel in international markets with greater efficiency and reliability.
Executive Remarks
Receiving the certificate, the Executive Director (Logistics & Infrastructure) expressed SAIL’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational excellence. “This recognition is not just a certificate, but a validation of our systems, our processes, and our vision to be a globally trusted steel supplier,” the Executive Director stated.
About SAIL
SAIL, or Steel Authority of India Ltd, is an Indian public sector steel manufacturing corporation headquartered in New Delhi. It’s one of India’s largest steel manufacturers and a “Maharatna” (a top-tier Public Sector Enterprise). SAIL manages several integrated and special steel plants across India, including those in Bhilai, Rourkela, Durgapur, Bokaro, and Burnpur. It is the largest government-owned steel producer in India, with an annual production capacity of 18.29 million metric tons.
