Maqta Gateway launches inspection and clearance services on ATLP

In line with its continued mission to digitally transform trade and logistics in Abu Dhabi, Maqta Gateway, the digital arm of AD Ports Group, has unveiled a new inspection and clearance module as part of its Advanced Trade and Logistics Platform (ATLP).

Inaugurated in May 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office, under the supervision of the Department of Economic Development, the Advanced Trade and Logistics Platform (ATLP) is an innovative single-window solution designed to unify trade and logistics services across Abu Dhabi, including sea, land, air, industrial and free zones.

Integrating directly with Abu Dhabi Customs’ online services, regulatory authorities, as well as supporting free zone, bonded warehouse, and e-commerce operations, the new inspection and clearance module will not only enable traders to oversee their end-to-end cargo clearance via ATLP but will also enhance related processes in line with the initiatives facilitating trade in the emirate and the UAE as per global requirements and standards.

ATLP’s new module will dramatically improve information sharing through the implementation of a centralised registration process.

It also helps streamline customs procedures by adopting an advanced electronic declaration mechanism, whereby goods can be pre-notified by submitting an electronic customs declaration document. In addition to streamlining administrative processes through a single optimised interface that allows all involved parties to share, review, and process trade data.

The integration of the platform with other regulatory authorities such as border control agencies will ensure smoother cross-border operations.

Simplifying and enhancing the flow of information exchanged will dramatically shorten import, transit, and export lead-times of goods, lessen instances of overlapping controls and duplication of work, as well as significantly lower operational and administrative costs.

H.E. Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) / Head of Logistics Sector Development Committee in Abu Dhabi, said: “The unveiling of Maqta Gateway’s inspection and clearance module as part of ATLP is an instrumental development that aligns directly with the leadership’s vision to transform the UAE into a regional and global hub for trade underscored by a robust, reliable, and innovation-powered sustainable economy.

“In an era where digital transformation is having a tremendous impact on how customers, businesses, and government organisations interact, and engage with each other, ATLP is boldly linking nation’s trade and logistics industries together and providing new solutions to improve and foster a more competitive digital trade environment.”

To date, ATLP’s Inspection and Clearance Module and related services have recorded over 500,000 transactions and now facilitate more than 80% of Abu Dhabi’s customs clearances.

In addition, over 50 million transactions were completed via ATLP an innovative single-window solution designed to unify trade and logistics services across Abu Dhabi, including sea, land, air, industrial and free zones.

The final part of the latest announcement includes the introduction of Free Zone and Bonded Warehouse processes, as part of ATLP.

The new module’s features include improved services across the cargo journey, reduced congestion at all border points, lessened security risks, cost-effective operational costs, as well as compliance with best global regulatory and industry practices.

Incorporating global best practices aimed at facilitating trade while simultaneously simplifying Free Zone processes without compromising border control effectiveness, ATLP’s newest enhancements will streamline clearance processes, inspections, movement of goods between transport hubs and between the various economic zones, while also supporting Abu Dhabi’s burgeoning e-commerce business with new qualitative and distinctive privileges.