What is ACID?
The Advanced Cargo Information Declaration (ACID) is a new customs system implemented by Egyptian authorities. According to the new Egyptian customs law #207, ACID is becoming mandatory for all import shipments in Egypt.
This certificate requires cargo data and documents (Bill of lading and commercial invoice) at least 48 hours before the cargo departs from the country of origin.
ACID is equivalent to documents known as ACI, CTN, BSC, FERI, and other acronyms used in different African countries.
System Advantages
- Allows Egyptian authorities to review cargo details before shipment, enabling risk management and control
- Reduces port agents' costs and accelerates release times when documentation is correct
- Provides real-time transaction tracking
Implementation Timeline
The system was given a 3-month grace period until June 30th for testing and verification. After this trial period, ACID becomes mandatory for all shipments to any Egyptian port.
Exporters failing to present this certificate will be unable to clear cargo from customs, facing fines and shipment delays.
2026 update: air cargo and the exporter's steps
According to the Turkish Ministry of Trade's Alexandria office (19 November 2025), the ACI system has been mandatory for air cargo to Egypt since 1 January 2026, and exporters shipping by air must complete their CargoX registration and verification. The Egyptian importer still obtains the ACID number on NAFEZA; the exporter's five steps on CargoX, how to check an ACID number and the official sources are in our Egypt ACID guide for exporters.