Security, trust, and competitiveness are the three pillars on which Guatemala is building a new logistics narrative. And the Authorized Economic Operator Training Workshop OEA-GT, organized by the “Santo Tomás de Castilla” Free Trade and Industrial Zone (ZOLIC) and the Superintendency of Tax Administration (SAT), with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was a clear demonstration of this joint effort, which has evolved into a comprehensive model that combines security, efficiency, trust, and traceability in international trade and in the operations carried out by each actor in the logistics chain.
A national strategy, not just a license
Becoming an OEA means being part of a comprehensive national vision that seeks to make Guatemala a safer and more attractive place for investment, with more streamlined customs processes and operations protected against any risks or delays.
Photos: Courtesy of SAT
Víctor Pérez, M.A., head of the Trade Facilitation and OAS Unit at the SAT, explained it clearly: “The OAS is a model for national governance that promotes transparency and efficiency in international trade.”. Guatemala is already a leader in the region, with more than 115 certified entities, ranging from importers and exporters to bonded warehouses and economic zones such as ZOLIC and the ZDEEP Puerta del Istmo Free Trade Zone.
In Guatemala, the OAS-GT program is voluntary and free of charge. It recognizes companies as “safe and reliable” provided they meet strict international standards established by the World Customs Organization (WCO). “This is a strategic partnership between the public and private sectors, in which both work to ensure the legitimate flow of goods without compromising necessary controls,”, said Víctor Pérez.
OAS GT is based on four essential pillars that aim to strengthen security and facilitate international trade: Customs-Business Cooperation, a Secure Logistics Chain, Risk Management, and Mutual Recognition.
The first pillar, Customs–Business, promotes a relationship of trust and collaboration between the SAT and certified companies, recognizing them as strategic partners in protecting the logistics chain. The second pillar, Secure Logistics Chain, establishes measures to guarantee the integrity of goods from their origin to their destination, minimizing risks and ensuring traceability at every stage of the process.
The third pillar, Risk Management, involves the implementation of systems that enable both companies and customs authorities to identify, assess, and mitigate potential threats to commercial operations. Finally, the fourth pillar, Mutual Recognition, seeks to establish international agreements that allow Guatemalan AEO companies to be recognized as trustworthy in other jurisdictions, thereby facilitating cross-border trade and strengthening the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
In addition, the OAS program collaborates with other ministries, such as the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Agriculture, particularly in coordinating inspections of goods in primary areas or customs operation zones, thereby helping to reduce clearance times.
Companies designated as Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) have access to benefits that enhance their competitiveness, such as expedited customs clearance, fewer inspections, priority in controls, and personalized assistance. They also receive preferential treatment in contingencies and international recognition, which facilitates their operations and strengthens their reputation in global trade.
All of this not only streamlines their logistics operations but also enhances their reputation and opens up new business opportunities globally.
The process for becoming an OAS-GT is divided into four main stages
Throughout the process, the SAT provides free technical assistance, guiding applicants step by step to ensure they meet the required standards. This management model not only improves the competitiveness of businesses but also strengthens the logistics ecosystem
the country as a whole.
Chevron: A Success Story
Photos: Courtesy of SAT
During the workshop, Francisco Galindo, Operations Manager at Chevron Guatemala—one of the users of ZOLIC at its government-owned property—shared how becoming an AEO transformed his operation: “We were the first OEA-certified fuel company in Guatemala. We grew from 75 to more than 400 gas stations, in part thanks to the trust that this certification inspires,”, he said.
Chevron implemented a management system that ensures traceability, ongoing training, compliance with audits and safety standards, from the refinery to the end customer. The result: A more efficient and secure supply chain, with more satisfied customers, based on a comprehensive process.
Panel Discussion: When Theory Meets Practice
One of the most enriching moments of the workshop was the panel discussion on experiences, moderated by Héctor Ruano of the SAT, with the participation of representatives from ZOLIC, the ZDEEP Puerta del Istmo Free Trade Zone, and Combex-Im. Speaking from different perspectives, they all agreed on one central idea: The OEA program not only streamlines processes, but also builds trust, speeds up procedures, and translates security into tangible savings for businesses.
Photos: Courtesy of SAT
Fredy Palma, from Zona Libre Puerta del Istmo, shared clear figures: “Our users save up to US$ 7,000 per month thanks to more streamlined processes”
Jorge Gómez, of Combex-Im, highlighted how AEO designation enabled them to transform the flow of goods at an airport terminal that had traditionally been constrained by complex bureaucratic processes.
The case of ZOLIC is particularly significant. It was the first public institution in Guatemala to obtain AEO certification, a strategic decision that not only reflects internal order and transparency but also marks the beginning of a new era for the country’s public logistics sector.
“No one thought a government agency could pull it off,” recalled Erick Tobar, director of ZOLIC, “but we did.”. Thanks to the OAS accreditation, the institution made progress toward obtaining additional certifications, such as BASC, thereby consolidating an organizational culture based on best practices and international standards.
Being an Authorized Economic Operator is a strategic tool for attracting foreign investment, building trust in international markets, and positioning Guatemala as a modern, secure, and competitive logistics hub.
The presence and support of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as the workshop’s organizer, is proof of the value this model holds for international trade and of how Guatemala is being positioned as a safe country for attracting and developing investments.
This workshop was a solid step toward the future Guatemala aspires to: a country where trade flows smoothly, and where public and private sector stakeholders work side by side to achieve safer, more efficient, and more integrated logistics.
Today, Guatemala is not only meeting international standards—it is helping to set them. And this commitment is supported by the active participation of officials from ZOLIC’s management, deputy management, and board of directors, reaffirming the institution’s conviction that logistics security and trade facilitation are key pillars for the country’s economic development.