The Egyptian Customs Authority has made the Advance Cargo Information system compulsory for all air freight shipments from January, reports Hague-based farm lobby Agroberichten Buitenland.
The move follows integration of CargoX blockchain document transfer services with Egypt’s NAFEZA single window system. Dutch exporters of seeds, dairy and floriculture worth over US$130 million annually must now comply with electronic filing requirements.
Under the process, Egyptian importers initiate filings on NAFEZA to generate an ACID number, which exporters then include in the Air Waybill. Exporters must upload documents including invoice, packing list and certificate of origin via CargoX.
All documents must be filed at least eight hours before flight departure. Exceptions apply only to express shipments under 50 kg and valued below $2,000.
Exporters are advised to register on CargoX, create blockchain keys and purchase filing units. Existing CargoX accounts used for sea freight are compatible with air freight. The Dutch Embassy in Cairo is offering support for companies facing compliance problems.
