The Egyptian Customs Authority

Main Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the Egyptian Customs Authority include:

1. Collecting Duties and Taxes: The authority oversees the collection of customs duties, taxes, and related fees for imports and exports according to applicable laws and regulations.
2. Combating Tax Evasion: The authority plays a crucial role in protecting public funds from tax evasion and ensuring the collection of all due fees.
3. Monitoring Raw Materials: The authority monitors the status of raw materials in free zones, particularly in warehouses located at airports and ports.
4. Oversight of Stockpiles: The authority oversees the flow of stockpiles in approved public and private facilities that receive imported goods.
5. Compliance with Policies: The authority ensures all operations comply with the policies, procedures, and standards set by the Egyptian ministries and other governmental agencies.
6. Combating Smuggling: The authority is involved in combating smuggling operations, whether domestic or across land, sea, or air borders.

Efforts in Modernization

The Egyptian Customs Authority continuously seeks to improve its operations by adopting modern technologies, such as advanced release protocols and risk management strategies across various sectors to enhance efficiency.

Trade Window System "Nafiza"

As part of its modernization efforts, the Egyptian Customs Authority launched the "Nafiza" system to simplify and improve trade operations.

Purpose and Functions

The "Nafiza" system is a national, unified trade platform that allows commercial partners and the transportation sector to submit all required data and documents for imports, exports, and transit through a single point of entry. This system significantly reduces routine procedures by exchanging data digitally only once for each piece of information, greatly simplifying operations.

International Recognized Organizations

• World Customs Organization (WCO)
• Trade Facilitation and E-Commerce Center
• United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

The "Nafiza" system aims to create an integrated data platform that coordinates and simplifies data and procedures among Egypt's concerned trade authorities.

Key Components of the "Nafiza" System

1. Process Re-engineering: Implementing innovative approaches to improve operational efficiency.
2. System Development Components: This includes the development of digital platforms, logistics applications, and integration technologies to ensure that relevant authorities have access to a comprehensive data repository.

Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) System

The ACI system was implemented to facilitate the import process:

• Maritime Imports: The mandatory registration of all maritime imports began on October 1, 2021.
• Air Freight: The ACI system for air shipments was activated on May 15, 2022, with full implementation of the system for air shipments by October 1, 2022.
• Postal Shipments: The system also includes postal shipments weighing up to 50 kg and valued at no more than $2,000.

Import Procedures Under the New System

1. Account Creation: Importers must create an account on the "Nafiza" platform to obtain an electronic signature and register preliminary shipment data to receive the Advanced Cargo Information Declaration (ACID) number.
2. Document Submission: Importers must submit all necessary documents and product data via the "Nafiza" portal.
3. ACID Validity: The first ACID number issued for customs entry is valid for six months.
4. Customs Brokers' Role: Customs brokers can request an ACID number and follow the procedures based on the electronic authorization from the shipment owner.

CARGO X System

CARGO X is a blockchain-based platform designed to facilitate the transfer of ownership documents such as bills of lading and other essential paperwork.

Main Features

• Public Blockchain: The CARGO X system operates on a public blockchain, ensuring data privacy and security.
• Document Transfer Portal: The ACI system uses the CARGO X portal to enhance security and efficiency in exchanging data in international trade.

Steps for Exporters to Use CARGO X

1. Registration: Exporters must register on the CARGO X platform via the link: Cargox.digital.
2. Account Verification: Exporters must verify their accounts after registration.
3. Payment Selection: Exporters should choose the payment package for their shipment.
4. Invoice Submission: An invoice is sent by CARGO X to the exporter for payment.
5. Bank Transfer Completion: Exporters must complete the payment via bank transfer to the CARGO X platform.
6. Document Submission: After account verification, exporters must submit the original documents to the importer.

Electronic Signature

An electronic signature is a digital mechanism that links the data to the signature, ensuring document integrity and authenticity.

Benefits of Electronic Signature

• Identity Verification: The electronic signature verifies the signer's identity.
• Encryption: It uses encryption to protect the information from unauthorized modifications.
• Access Control: The electronic signature allows only authorized individuals to access the document.

How to Activate the Electronic Signature Service in the "Nafiza" System

1. Request Certificate: Contact an accredited provider to obtain an electronic signature certificate.
2. Purchase Electronic Signature: Purchase an electronic signature device (e-Token) from the provider.
3. Access System: Connect the electronic signature device to your computer to access the "Nafiza" system.
4. Sign Documents: Click the "Sign Document" button to electronically sign the required documents.