UAE Customs to Launch Integrated Central Tariff System in April 2025
The new system aims to streamline customs operations, enhance trade, and improve compliance and competitiveness.
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Border Security in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced the launch of the Integrated Central Tariff System, scheduled for April 1, 2025. This initiative marks a significant advancement in the UAE's customs sector, aimed at reducing processing times, facilitating trade, enhancing community security, and improving compliance levels while boosting the attractiveness of the customs and economic sectors in the country.
Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahij Al-Falasi, Acting Director General of Customs and Border Security, emphasized that the Central Tariff Project, part of the 'UAE Customs Platform,' serves as a federal system that classifies, categorizes, and updates tariffs for 17,000 goods electronically.
This categorization adheres to standards set by the World Customs Organization and the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The system is designed to automate and govern the procedures surrounding restricted and prohibited goods, achieving full compliance with customs tariff provisions as well as international agreements and treaties.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance the use of information in customs data analysis while facilitating the digital transformation of tariff implementation.
It aligns with the strategic directions of the UAE government to develop economic and security sectors and improve competitiveness indicators globally.
A comprehensive electronic database will assist 'UAE Customs' and its stakeholders in minimizing time and effort while reducing errors in the classification of goods and the assessment of applicable tariffs.
The General Administration of Customs in Abu Dhabi has completed a 100% electronic connection with the Central Tariff System, underscoring its commitment to swift project execution and support for national customs initiatives.
Current efforts are focused on establishing electronic connections with other customs departments across the country.
Rashed Lahij Al-Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, expressed satisfaction with the successful integration of Abu Dhabi's customs operations with the Central Tariff System.
He remarked that this achievement reflects the administration's dedication to the leadership's vision for enhanced collaboration among customs authorities in the UAE, aiming to stimulate comprehensive economic development and solidify the UAE’s position as a global trade and business hub.
He noted that this electronic connection serves as a foundation for expanding opportunities with world economies and enhancing the country's competitiveness.
Abu Dhabi Customs is prepared to invest in advanced technology and artificial intelligence tools, adhering to global best practices, within the framework of the UAE Centennial 2071 strategy.
This forward-looking approach has facilitated stronger integration and collaboration with strategic partners across various government agencies and private sector companies.