MAWANI, Saudi Customs launch initiative to facilitate empty containers imports

Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), in cooperation with Saudi Customs, launched today, Feb. 28, a new initiative to facilitate and restructure the procedures for importing empty containers in Saudi ports.

MAWANI said in a statement that this initiative will help reduce the time needed to complete customs procedures for empty containers since arrival to the port until they are released from three days to only limited hours.

This will be done by eliminating the need for a customs service to clear containers, so that customs procedures will be performed directly through the shipping lines offices operating in Saudi ports without having to review the customs port.

The initiative aims to support and encourage Saudi exports and maritime trade by facilitating the import and availability of empty containers, reducing operational costs on container import lines, facilitating procedures for the releasing containers, and speedy exit of empty containers for exporters from the port, the statement added.