Analysis of Egypt's Import Regulatory Framework

The Egyptian Customs Authority (NCS) hasEquipment Importsimplementationa dual regulatory system: Technical trade measures that not only comply with the requirements of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement but also retain national characteristics, set to take effect in 2025.Presidential Decree No. 117Clearly specify that the agent equipment importer must complete:

• Pre-registration of the Industrial Development Authority of Egypt (IDAI)
• The scope of compulsory quality certification (COI) has been expanded to cover 38 types of equipment.
• Customs Value Verification System (CVVS) Electronic Interface

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Customs Clearance Process

Taking the CIF Alexandria landed injection molding equipment as an example:

• Document pre-review stage
  • The commercial invoice must indicate the country of origin and HS code (8422.1990 added in the 2025 version).
  • The packing list must include the equipment serial number and power parameters.
• Key points for customs declaration
  • The declared value must not be lower than 85% of the local market reference price in Egypt.
  • Used equipment must provide proof of service life.

High-frequency risk scenario response

Customs clearance obstruction cases from January to May 2025 indicate:

• The proportion of document discrepancy cases is 42%.: A Chinese company's laser cutting machine was detained due to failure to update ISO 13849 certification.
• Classification disputes account for 31%.: The multi-functional processing center was mistakenly classified under heading 8479, resulting in a 12% tariff rate discrepancy.
• The proportion of value questioning accounts for 27%.: Customs questioned the declared value of the equipment, triggering a 45-day price verification.

2025 policy change alerts

The Egyptian Customs Authority recently announced thatWhite Paper on Technical Barriers to TradeDisclose:

• Non-electric equipment imports require additional energy efficiency certification.
• Mandatory Arabic safety labeling for electromechanical products
• The standard for calculating port demurrage fees will adopt a new formula: (Cargo Value × 0.5%) + (Number of Days × 200 EGP).

Golden Rules for Agent Selection

High-quality agency service providers should possess:

• Localized customs clearance network：AEO-certified warehouses are established in Alexandria and Port Said.
• Emergency response mechanism: Complete the preparation of customs inquiry response documents within 72 hours.
• Compliance guarantee system: Provide full-cycle risk control from HS pre-classification to tax refund application.