Egypt streamlines customs procedures to boost trade and investment

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly convened a high-level meeting at the government headquarters in the New Administrative Capital to discuss enhancements to the customs system. The session brought together key officials, including Minister of Finance Ahmed Kouchouk, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan El Khatib, and others. This is reported by Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS.

Minister of Finance Ahmed Kouchouk outlined a comprehensive package of approximately 19 legislative and procedural reforms designed to modernise customs operations. These measures focus on accelerating customs clearance, simplifying payment processes, enhancing system oversight, and improving operational transparency.

Key initiatives include streamlining customs tax payments, expanding the pre-clearance system, activating a pre-inquiry service, publishing a detailed guide on import and export procedures, consolidating customs circulars, and strengthening communication channels with trade stakeholders. Additionally, new mechanisms are being introduced to expedite dispute resolution, reduce clearance times, and enhance the technical expertise of customs personnel.

Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade Hassan El Khatib presented the first phase of implementation, aimed at optimising customs efficiency and boosting Egypt’s trade performance. Among the most significant reforms already in place is the extension of working hours for all entities involved in customs clearance, now operating seven days a week, including weekends and official holidays.

The officials claimed that this initiative has significantly improved supply chain logistics, minimised cargo delays, and ensured a steady flow of essential goods and raw materials into the domestic market. As a result, congestion at ports has eased, reducing costs associated with prolonged storage and clearance delays.

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