Dubai Customs goes paperless with supply chain partners

As part of the initiative, Dubai Customs will implement the latest in electronic commerce principles to exchange information with its various trade partners on exported and imported shipments within Dubai. The system will also improve the communication process between the various parties, allowing companies to electronically perform a number of customs transactions without physically visiting a Dubai Customs centre.

“Dubai Customs, as a government agency, has a responsibility towards securing the supply chain, since a disrupted supply chain has a direct effect on the economy and risks the lives of citizens,” said Ahmed Butti Ahmed, director general, Dubai Customs.

“Through these agreements with companies such as Emirates SkyCargo, Al Tayer Logistics, Dnata and Gargash Enterprises, we are establishing a real partnership with the private sector for the purpose of moving from the ordinary paper-based working environment into an advanced electronic working environment. This will help Dubai Customs to better serve the logistics sector and allows the business community in general to benefit from greater efficiencies,” he added.

The paperless initiative from Dubai Customs has already received a positive response from the logistics sector. In addition to the reductions in cost and time that are often associated with customs procedures, the system is expected to benefit the environment by slashing the amount of paperwork being handled by companies.

“The benefits for everyone involved are real. Dubai Customs considers all customers, whether they are traders, brokers or freight forwarders, as key contributors to the international supply chain. Through the cooperation of these companies that are piloting our system, we can monitor and track shipments from the country of origin through all destinations on their way to Dubai,” added Ahmed.