The Customs Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Information and Technical Services Company to begin to offer electronic services for customs shipping documents (the Manifest) a...

The Customs Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Information and Technical Services Company to begin to offer electronic services for customs shipping documents (the Manifest) at all customs outlets by air or  by sea throughout Egypt.  The company has won the approval of the Customs Authority in the wake of finalizing a  number of technical tests over a six month period and in cooperation with Egyptair and shipping agents.  The idea is to eliminate paper exchange and limit operation to electronic exchanges thereby reducing manifest costs and reduce arrear payments.  The electronic shipping method offers security to documents through a closed circuit binding the agent and the company to the customs outlet.  The system will include free training among agents, Egyptair and offering technical support for minimal amounts for the exchange of information electronically. A process is also underway to link electronic services with banks to offer a comprehensive service bearing the presence of over fifteen shipping naval agents and air services who have been trained to offer the cutting edge e-services within four months. (source :Al-ahram)