Head of the Egyptian Customs Authority Ahmed Amawi issued a comprehensive statement to the customs client community, confirming that no new fees will be imposed on importers with the introduction of the mandatory Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system for air shipments, effective January 1, 2026.
Amawi stressed that the core objective of this strategic digital transformation is to significantly reduce customs clearance time and costs for goods. By providing advance access to shipment data and documents before departure, the system facilitates procedures for the Authority’s trade partners, achieving higher levels of transparency, accuracy, and proactive risk assessment, which ultimately expedites customs clearance upon arrival.
This modernization effort is a key part of the Egyptian Customs Authority’s digital framework, designed to enhance the efficiency of cross-border trade and improve Egypt’s logistics performance indicators.
The Head of the Customs Authority clarified several operational aspects of the ACI system.
He confirmed that the essential role of the customs broker remains intact; however, their functions will now be conducted entirely electronically within a unified system to ensure speed and accuracy.
He also noted that the ACI system does not apply to postal parcels weighing less than 50 kilograms but can be applied to re-export shipments, provided standard commercial data requirements are met. Regarding data management, Amawi explained that some basic data can be modified prior to shipment, though information related to importers and exporters is fixed. Crucially, item-specific details, such as the sub-tariff item, country of origin, or intended purpose of use, can be modified via the “Nafeza” platform.
The Consignment Identification Number (ACID), which serves as the primary reference for the shipment, is valid for six months from its issue date and is renewable with the approval of the relevant authorities.
Amawi detailed the process for compliance, emphasizing that the pilot phase of the air cargo pre-registration system has been underway since May 15, 2022, utilizing the Nafeza platform for importers and the CargoX platform for foreign exporters.
Obtaining the ACID number involves five straightforward steps: logging into the “Nafeza” platform, selecting the request type (e.g., commercial, personal use), entering the source, importer, and invoice details, verifying the data, and submitting the request. Once the ACID is issued, the foreign supplier uses the CargoX platform to submit the shipment data, including the electronic invoice, and affix the ACID to all documentation.
Following takeoff, carriers must upload the electronic manifest data to the Nafeza platform.
The Customs Authority concluded by strongly urging the business community to prepare for mandatory implementation by ensuring immediate registration on the platforms, securing electronic signature units, and training employees on the new procedures to leverage the system’s benefits.
