SEATTLE - eTradeWire -- Trade Tech, Inc., a global logistics platform, and TradeWaltz Inc., a SaaS-based collaborative trade facilitation platform, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote the GRACE (Global Reliable Authorized Commerce Express) project, aimed at digitizing and streamlining trade procedures for Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) between Japan and the U.S.

The AEO system certifies trade operators meeting security and compliance standards, granting benefits such as simplified and expedited Customs procedures. Japan and the U.S. currently have a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for the AEO system, advancing trade facilitation based on mutual trust.

The MoU initiates discussions on integrating Trade Tech and TradeWaltz platforms. The collaboration will develop a system to leverage AEO mutual recognition, enabling immediate, seamless sharing of trade-related data between exporters and importers.

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It will also allow Customs brokers in both countries to submit declarations electronically, reducing manual processes and paper exchanges, and facilitating clearance well before vessel arrival. For AEO operators under the MRA, this will reduce Customs processing times, shorten cargo lead times, optimize logistics costs, and improve overall supply chain efficiency.

Both companies will continue promoting secure digital trade and international data collaboration, strengthening global supply chains.

Bryn E. Heimbeck, President and Co-Founder of Trade Tech, noted that this partnership will create a Pan-Japan/USA data standard, enabling AEO operators to collaborate closely, reduce friction, and support seamless cargo flow.

Takahiro Sato, President & CEO of TradeWaltz, said the initiative aims to expand AEO adoption, accelerate trade digitalization, and optimize international logistics between Japan and the U.S.