The United Arab Emirates’ Advance Cargo Information (ACI) program, spearheaded by the National Advance Information Center (NAIC), has ushered in its pivotal second phase.
As of July, airlines must now comply with the new PLACI regulations to continue transporting cargo to and from the UAE.
This represents a crucial milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to streamline customs processes, ensure air cargo security, and maintain its position as a leading hub for international trade.
How do airlines comply?
The UAE’s ACI program is now live and requires the inclusion of the first six digits of the Harmonized System (HS) code for all goods items listed on an air waybill. While six digits are mandatory, eight-digit HS codes are also accepted.
HS codes will need to be submitted using either FWB or FHL messages, depending on the specific shipment type:
For consolidated shipments: airlines must submit the HS code on the House Waybill level.
For direct shipments: airlines must submit the HS code on the Master Waybill level.
For direct back-to-back shipments: airlines must submit the HS code on the House Waybill level.
UAE’s ACI has also introduced communication protocols/status updates between operators and NAIC, including:
From operator to NAIC: Response to RFI (Request for Information), Response to RFS (Request for Screening), Acknowledgement, and Error.
From NAIC to operator: Assessment Complete, Request for Information, Request for Screening, and Do Not Load.
If airlines submit an ACI filing that does not include the 6-digit HS codes or with invalid HS codes, the filing will be automatically rejected. Non-compliance with ACI PLACI requirements may also result in sanctions, financial penalties, and disruption in supply chains, leading to delays.
Simplify your ACI filings using Traxon Global Security
CHAMP’s regulatory solution, Traxon Global Security (TGS), is ready for compliance with Phase Two of the UAE’s NAIC.
Carriers and freight forwarders can send their consignment data as CargoIMP FWB and single HWB FHL messages to TGS before loading.
TGS then sends the required data for assessment and handles the returned responses, translating the security event codes into meaningful status information upon which the filing trader can act.
Contact us if you would like to learn more about streamlining your PLACI filing processes for air cargo to and from the UAE.
