In the United Arab Emirates, the Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) programme became mandatory for shipping companies and freight forwarders on October 1. They must submit cargo data before a vessel departs the port of loading, The National reports.
The rules apply to cargo bound for the UAE, transiting through the country, transshipped at its ports, or remaining on board a vessel when it calls at UAE ports.
The programme is implemented by the UAE National Advance Information Centre (NAIC), established to enhance the efficiency and security of the country’s ports, borders and free zones. Vessel operators and freight forwarders must provide the centre with cargo information, including details of the consignor and consignee.
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Following its review, NAIC may accept the declaration, request additional information or prohibit loading. Containers for which a prohibition decision has been made cannot be loaded onto a vessel. Once a vessel arrives in the UAE, the existing procedure for submitting information to local port and customs authorities remains in force.
Information can be submitted through direct integration with NAIC, available to shipping lines, or through an accredited service provider. According to ODeX Chief Operating Officer Binay Thoppil, the required information is already contained in bills of lading — documents containing details of the goods, route, carrier, consignor and consignee.
NAIC does not charge a fee for submitting data, although third-party service providers may set their own rates. Late submission, failure to submit a declaration or errors in the data may be considered violations and lead to fines. CMA CGM and Maersk informed customers that certain control mechanisms would be introduced in stages.
Source: UA
