Asia
Lane is Available
Importing to Egypt
Despite its booming tech sector, exporting and importing to Egypt presents significant challenges due to stringent regulatory requirements. In recent years, Egypt has implemented trade reforms, introduced the mandatory CargoX platform, and modernized its customs procedures, creating a complex environment for global trade.
Tax
Up to 16%
Duties
Up to 10%
Lead Times
6 - 12 Weeks (depending on license requirements)
Restricted Items
High Frequency Networking Devices, Refurbished and Second-Hand Goods Restrictions
Best Carrier Option
Courier
Non-Working Days
Fridays; Saturdays
Prominent Languages
Arabic
Import Requirements for Egypt
Egypt’s new Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) system, implemented through the NAFEZA platform, requires consignment documentation to be submitted online at least 48 hours before shipment arrival. This system streamlines customs clearance but introduces an additional layer of complexity for importers, who must ensure timely submission to avoid delays.
To clear goods through Egyptian customs, several important documents must be provided. These include the Commercial Invoice (CI), which requires two copies plus the original, all legalized by the Egyptian consulate in the country of origin. A Certificate of Origin (COO), also authenticated by the Egyptian consulate. Although a Packing List is recommended, it may not always be required. A bill of Lading (BOL) and a Pro Forma Invoice are needed to obtain an import license. A Letter of Credit (LOC), which must be 100% cash-backed by Egyptian banks, is also essential. Inspection Certificates may be required, particularly for medical goods, and a Content Analysis may be needed for goods subject to testing.
Population
112.7 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Petroleum Gas
Capital City
Cairo
Biggest Industry by Import
Refined Petroleum
Import duties in Egypt vary, with tariffs ranging from 5% to 40% and an average of 8.19% applied across most categories. Additionally, some goods may be subject to extra taxes depending on their classification.
Regulatory compliance is a critical factor in the import process. For certain tech products, approvals from the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) are required. The Ministry of Health prohibits the import of used or refurbished medical equipment. Imported goods must also meet environmental and safety standards, with some products undergoing inspections to ensure they are safe for consumers.
Additionally, all imported products must be labeled in Arabic, with detailed descriptions and safety instructions. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in delays or even the rejection of goods at customs.
Unique Pain Points and Challenges Facing Egypt
Importing to Egypt can be a frustrating and time-consuming process due to various regulatory hurdles:
High Tariffs & Revaluation Risk
Mis-declaring goods’ value on invoices can lead to costly revaluations by Egyptian customs, as well as penalties or higher taxes. Accurate valuation and declaration are critical to avoid these risks.
Long Lead Times
The need for multiple certifications, inspections, and document legalization often leads to delays, sometimes extending to weeks or months.
Complex Documentation
Several key documents, such as certificates of origin and quality control certifications, require legalization by Egyptian consulates, adding additional time and cost to the import process.
Import Restrictions on Certain Goods
Products like medical equipment and vehicles face stringent import restrictions. Imported vehicles, for example, must be no older than one year from the date of manufacture.
Complex Compliance and Licensing
Egyptian compliance regulations require a deep understanding of various standards and regulations, particularly for tech or medical equipment. Regulatory approvals from entities like the NTRA or the Ministry of Health can slow down the process.
Countries Associated with Egypt
Asia
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Asia
China
Export Requirements for Egypt
Exporters must ensure compliance by submitting key documents when exporting goods from Egypt. These include a CI, a COO certified by the Egyptian Chamber of Commerce, an Inspection Certificate depending on the nature of the goods, and a Quality Control Certification for products subject to health or safety regulations.
Certain products, such as medical equipment, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals, face export restrictions and require specific licensing before they can be shipped. Additionally, exporters must navigate the customs procedures set forth by the Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (GOEIC) and the Egyptian Customs Authority to ensure that their goods are cleared for export.
Exporters also need to comply with Egypt’s regulations concerning labeling, packaging, and registration, especially for high-value goods like electronics and luxury items. These regulations ensure that goods are properly prepared for international markets and meet the necessary standards.
Finally, while some goods are exempt from taxes, others may be eligible for rebates if they are re-exported. Egypt’s drawback system provides an opportunity for exporters to reclaim certain duties and taxes on goods that are exported again after initially entering the country.
Mandatory Use of CargoX for Exporters Shipping to Egypt
CargoX is Egypt’s mandatory blockchain-based platform for submitting Advance Cargo Information (ACI) for all imports. It integrates directly with Egypt’s National Single Window system, NAFEZA, to enhance customs efficiency, reduce fraud, and accelerate cargo clearance.
The CargoX ACI requirement applies to all sea freight shipments and air freight cargo.
What Exporters Need to Know
All foreign exporters shipping goods to Egypt must be registered and verified on the CargoX platform. Once verified, exporters can delegate TecEx as their third-party IOR, who will then facilitate the import process on their behalf and obtain the Advance Cargo Information Declaration (ACID) number through NAFEZA.
The ACID number is a unique shipment identifier and must appear on all shipping documents (commercial invoice, bill of lading/air waybill, etc.) before the goods arrive in Egypt.
CargoX serves as a secure digital gateway between international exporters and Egyptian Customs, eliminating the need for paper-based documentation. By allowing shipment data to be reviewed before arrival, the system significantly speeds up customs clearance while providing transparent, auditable tracking of documents.
Benefits of CargoX
Cargo release times reduced from approximately 29 days to under 6 days
Increased government tax and customs revenue
Lower compliance and administrative costs for importers
Significant reduction in document fraud and discrepancies
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with CargoX ACI requirements may result in:
Rejection of cargo by Egyptian Customs
Return of goods at the exporter’s expense
Penalties and potential loss of credibility with Egyptian authorities
How TecEx Supports Exporters Shipping to Egypt
As CargoX registration is mandatory for exporters, TecEx offers a pathway to ensure compliance and a smooth shipment process:
Exporter-Managed CargoX Registration with TecEx as IOR
The exporter registers and maintains their own CargoX account and designates TecEx as a trusted third-party Importer of Record (IOR). Once the one-time account setup is complete, future shipments will continue seamlessly. Through this, the exporter remains listed as the exporter on CargoX and all documents, while TecEx handles all import formalities in Egypt.
Specialized Solutions and Services for Egypt
To streamline the import and export process in Egypt, consider utilizing the following tailored solutions:
Expert Importer of Record (IOR) Services
An experienced IOR, such as TecEx, can help navigate the complexities of Egypt’s customs regulations, ensuring all documents are properly prepared and filed. This reduces the risk of rejections and delays.
Documentation Legalization & Attestation
TecEx offers expert assistance in legalizing documents through Egyptian consulates, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Customs Valuation Services
Proper goods valuation is critical to avoiding penalties from Egyptian customs. TecEx’s experts can ensure accurate valuation and prevent costly revaluations.
Egyptian Compliance Regulations
National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA) Approval
Shipping tech products into Egypt requires navigating regulations set by the National Telecom Regulatory Authority (NTRA). This includes wireless and non-wireless goods, requiring the importer to submit test reports and applications for approval before imports can commence.
The documents that need to be compiled for the NTRA include a declaration of conformity, a valuation certificate, a certificate of conformity, a certificate of origin, and a letter of authorization.
In some cases, samples are also required, making imports even more complicated. TecEx will handle and compile all the documentation to be submitted to the NTRA to expedite approval and successfully get your goods through customs.
Egyptian Customs Authority
The Egyptian Customs Authority plays a central role in regulating the import and export of goods, enforcing compliance with tariffs, taxes, and licensing requirements.
International Trade Compliance
Egypt is a signatory to international conventions, such as the Kyoto Convention, which seeks to simplify customs processes. However, national regulations and compliance requirements remain highly specific to each product category.
Industry-Specific Regulations
Products such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and textiles face additional industry-specific standards, often requiring certificates from international bodies like the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).
Egypt’s Trade Landscape
Egypt is strategically located between Africa and the Middle East, acting as a critical gateway for trade between continents. It boasts one of the most developed maritime sectors in Africa, with the Suez Canal facilitating approximately 10% of global trade volume.
Its major trading partners include China, the United States, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates, reflecting its diverse trade base, which includes high-value technology.
Importing and exporting goods to and from Egypt presents significant challenges, from complex documentation requirements to lengthy customs procedures and high tariffs. However, with the right expertise, such as that offered by TecEx, businesses can navigate these hurdles and ensure their shipments are compliant, efficient, and cost-effective. Whether importing tech goods or exporting dual-use products, staying informed and leveraging specialized solutions will help streamline the trade process in Egypt.
Important Dates
Egypt observes a number of religious and public holidays that may impact your shipping deadlines. These include Aid el Fitr (Ramadan Feast) which is for 3 days at the end of Ramadan, and Aid el Adha (Sacrifice Feast) for 4 days, 70 days after the end of Ramadan. Business may also be particularly slow during August when Egyptians typically enjoy a summer vacation.
Shipping to Egypt?
Navigate complex regulations and modern customs with ease. Leverage the latest trade reforms and CargoX platform to streamline your shipment. Start your Egyptian import/export today.
