Importers, customs agents, and other handlers need to set up an account with the Customs Authority’s new National Single Window for Foreign Trade Facilitation (Nafeza) as Egypt is getting ready to rollout a pre-registration system at seaports around the country, according to guidelines issued by the Finance Ministry.
They also need to obtain a certified digital signature from companies authorized to provide e-Token services.
Egypt will trial the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system — a World Customs Organization protocol that provides shipping lines, port operators and governments real-time information on the potential arrival of goods — on 1 April and make the system mandatory in ports by July.
Once registered, importers will soon be required to submit information on shipments before loading, and obtain a unique advance registration number. This includes handing over codes identifying the seller and port and country of origin, a description of the cargo, an assessment of any custom dues, and other relevant information.
