Importers and representatives from leading air freight companies, participating in an open dialogue with Head of the Egyptian Customs Authority Mr Ahmed Amouy at a Ministry of Finance seminar, expressed high optimism for a significant reduction in air freight customs clearance time and costs.
This optimism stems directly from their successful experience with the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system at seaports.
The private sector representatives confirmed that the pre-registration of maritime shipments under ACI has successfully minimized demurrage charges and fines, which they anticipate will set the precedent for air freight, promising a “qualitative leap in the efficiency and speed” of operations.
Amouy underscored the Authority’s commitment to collaboration, stating that “Together we achieve our goals and facilitate trade,” and affirmed that extending the ACI system to air freight ensures speed, accuracy, and ease of customs procedures.
He further emphasized the Customs Authority’s readiness to support its partners, adding, “We are very keen on effective communication with our partners in the private sector and are ready to provide all means of technical support to facilitate business operations.”
The industry representatives detailed the anticipated impact of ACI Air, stressing that the system is expected to eliminate “unpleasant surprises,” such as shipment rejections or delays due to missing documents, allowing for more accurate operational planning, inventory reduction, and improved cash flow, thereby enhancing security, transparency, and governance.
Crucially, given the nature of air freight, particularly for essential items like serums, vaccines, and perishable medical supplies, the system’s ability to provide rapid clearance is vital.
Companies expect the advanced data and seamless digital platform connecting all stakeholders to reduce manual inspections, enhance risk management efficiency, and ensure the smooth passage of shipments, ultimately confirming ACI Air as a necessary move towards complete digital transformation and making Egypt a more attractive logistics hub.
While praising the initiative, industry representatives presented several key recommendations for a smooth implementation. They stressed the necessity of providing continuous and rapid technical support, prioritizing comprehensive training on digital platforms, and clarifying updated procedures and standardizing data requirements for foreign exporters.
Furthermore, they urged the Customs Authority to provide clear guidance for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) adapting to the digital shift and to ensure a sufficient transition period for all parties to fully adapt to the new system, acknowledging that initial challenges in the maritime transition were overcome through increased awareness and stability.
