Dubai unveils new plan for re-exports

Dubai: Dubai is implementing the ATA Carnet system to facilitate trade and allow the temporary admission of merchandise and goods, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced on Tuesday.

The ATA Carnet system is known as a Merchandise Passport for the business community wanting to admit goods across international borders, on a temporary basis, for a period of not more than a year without having to pay customs duty.

The goods may include merchandise, commercial samples including computers, cameras and video equipment, industrial machinery, automobiles, gems and jewellery, wearing apparel and display tools for participation in exhibitions and promotional events. Carnets do not cover consumable or disposable goods (e.g., food and agriculture products) giveaways, or postal traffic.

In a bid to raise awareness about the importance of adopting the ATA Carnet system the Dubai Chamber has organised a two-day workshop and seminar entitled: "Why Should the Middle East Have International Trade Facilitations via ATA Carnet System" in the attendance of top officials from the Federal Customs Authority (UAE), the International Chamber of Commerce's World Chambers Federation, and a host of private and public sector representatives.

Hamad Bu Amim, Director-General of the Dubai Chamber, maintained that Dubai Chamber has been working hard on laying the foundation of the ATA Carnet not only in the UAE but in the region as well.

"We are constantly working with our international partners to provide the business community with world-class services that will empower their businesses and help them establish stronger and more lasting business relations with their local, regional and global trading partners," he added.

"We believe that this seminar and workshop will help offer a new perspective on the benefits of adopting the system and the potential it has for their businesses, and the economy of Dubai and the UAE," he added.