Egypt started to implement the ACI Cargo Pre-Registration System, a new digitalized customs procedure.

The Egyptian government started to implement a new customs procedure ACI Cargo Pre-Registration System which requires importers to provide shipment data electronically at least 48 hours before cargo shipment’s arrival to Egypt. The required documents include a commercial invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading Copy and a certificate of origin.

According to Nafeza, the only trade facilitation portal in Egypt, most ACI filing require the following documents:

• A commercial invoice (PDF Format and XLS/XLSX Microsoft Excel “Nafeza Template” or convert PDF to EXCEL) see samples.
• Packing List (PDF Format)
• Bill of Lading Copy (do not upload original BL – only a copy of BL is needed) (PDF Format)
• Certificate of origin (PDF Format)

Depending on shipment/cargo, other documents might be required (PDF Format):

• Bill of materials
• Certificate of analysis
• Certificate of fumigation
• Certificate of inspection
• Certificate of insurance
• Delivery note
• 1 movement certificate
• Halal certificate
• Health certificate
• Material safety data sheet
• Phytosanitary certificate
• Cover letter
• Veterinary certificate
• Others

For more guidance regarding required documents such as invoice samples, check NAFEZA’s Download Center.

What is the ACI Cargo Pre-Registration System?

Advance Cargo Information (ACI) is a new customs procedure that requires cargo data or documents (Pro-forma invoice and draft bill of lading-if exist) at least 48 hours before cargo shipment from export country, to enable stakeholders to monitor any risk to the state through the Risk Management System (RMS), with the highest priority given to the security of Egyptian citizens

What are the Advantages of ACI?

• Reducing release time and hence the cost of releasing goods
• Using electronic data and documents, thereby dispensing with paper documents
• Protecting the Egyptian citizens from unidentified goods or goods from unidentified origins

Who does ACI impact?

• Importers
• Exporters and suppliers (foreign)
• Clearance companies
• Sea/air shipping companies

When will ACI be applied?

ACI is implemented from 1st October, 2021 after passing the pilot phase that started 1st April 2021

How to prepare for ACI?

• The Egyptian importer register on the online portal www.nafeza.gov.eg
• Obtain the electronic signature pad from competent authorities to access Nafeza
• List advance cargo data and acquire ACID prior to the start of import operations
• Submit cargo data and documents (commercial invoice and final or initial bill of lading) prior to shipment
• Notify overseas exporters dealing with electronic invoice to send all shipment documents to (Nafeza) platform through supply chain networks using Block-chain technology – upon vessel’s departure from the port of export.

Source: nafveza.gov.eg

NOTE: The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.