ZATCA: Providing Customs Declarations 72 Hours before Shipments Arrive at Ports Enhances Speed of Clearance, Flexibility of Customs Operations

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has said that the required submission of the customs declaration and documents for imports 72 hours before the arrival of shipments at customs ports is an essential and important step to ensure the speed of the arrival of goods, accelerate clearance, and reduce import costs, according a press release issued by the ZATCA today.
 The release added that ZATCA Spokesperson Hamoud Al-Harbi said: "The authority emphasizes to all its importing and customs partners the importance and necessity of submitting the customs declaration before the shipment arrives, verifying the authenticity of the attached information, such as the bill of lading and invoice, as well as completing all requirements of customs clearance from the relevant entities regarding the goods, for which permission requires obtaining prior consent before the import process."
 Al-Harbi added that: "Submitting and completing all requirements and import permits for goods that require clearance and obtaining prior approvals from the concerned governmental bodies before the import process directly contributes to accelerating the customs clearance process, avoiding any further delays or costs, and enhancing the speed of customs operations and associated logistic services."
 To enhance the speed and effectiveness of customs ports, Al-Harbi highlighted the Clearance within Two Hours Initiative, which aims to enable customs clearance in just two hours to complete the requirements. This initiative is an essential part of the authority's strategy to contribute to achieving the Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing the Kingdom's competitiveness as a global logistics center.
 Al-Harbi concluded his statement by indicating that ZATCA's efforts, in cooperation with 26 government entities concerned with customs clearance, aim to facilitate imports and exports and enhance the flexibility of customs operations and associated logistics services. He noted that the authority will continue to work side by side with its partners to ensure smooth and efficient customs procedures, provide complete services that support international trade, and enhance the Kingdom's global competitiveness in imports and exports.
 For any inquiries regarding this service, ZATCA has encouraged the public to contact it through its 24/7 call center 19993, the "Ask Zakat, Tax and Customs" account on X platform @Zatca_Care, by e-mail info@zatca.gov.sa, or through live chat on ZATCA website zatca.gov.sa.