Trade Tech Inc. and TradeWaltz Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance the GRACE (Global Reliable Authorized Commerce Express) project. The partnership aims to digitize Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) trade processes and streamline supply chains between Japan and the United States.
The AEO system certifies trusted operators who meet security and compliance standards, allowing for simplified and faster customs clearance. Japan and the U.S. already share a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for AEOs, which grants reciprocal benefits based on mutual trust.
Under the new MoU, Trade Tech and TradeWaltz will explore integration of their digital platforms. The goal is to enable seamless sharing of trade documents between exporters and importers in both countries. Customs brokers would then use this data directly for electronic declarations, cutting the need for paper exchanges and manual entry.
The move is expected to reduce processing times for certified AEO operators and allow cargo clearance even before vessel arrival. That, in turn, could shorten lead times, lower logistics costs, and boost overall supply chain efficiency.
Bryn E. Heimbeck, president and co-founder of Trade Tech, said the agreement helps align compliance and logistics. “This partnership reduces friction and improves efficiency, creating a Pan-Japan/USA data standard for global supply chain management,” he said.
TradeWaltz CEO Takahiro Sato added that the initiative will encourage broader use of the AEO system. “We aim to help more companies realize its value while driving efficiency in Japan-U.S. trade,” he said.
Japan currently holds AEO MRAs with 14 countries, including the U.S., the EU, the UK, China, Singapore, and Australia.
