Enhancing Trade Resilience: UAE Maritime Leaders Convene

Dubai, UAE – A high-level coordination meeting led by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, was held at the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) in Dubai. This gathering included key representatives from global shipping companies and maritime associations, focusing on regional supply chain challenges.

The meeting featured His Excellency Abdulla bin Damithan, Chairman of PCFC, along with His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, who brought together influential figures from the logistics and maritime sectors.

Commitment to Trade Stability

Dr. Thani underlined the UAE’s dedication to ensuring the stability of trade flows and boosting supply chain resilience. He stressed the importance of collaboration and innovative solutions to manage regional challenges effectively, facilitate continuous goods movement, and uphold the UAE’s reputation as a premier global trade hub.

“The UAE will persist in fortifying trade stability at both regional and international levels through effective policies and initiatives aimed at improving supply chain efficiency and sustainability,” he remarked.

Collaboration Between Sectors

H.E. Bin Damithan highlighted the essential partnership between public and private entities. Progress made in building supply chain resilience was noted, including enhancements to alternative trade routes such as Fujairah and Khorfakkan ports, aimed at creating smoother cargo transitions.

“Our accomplishments demonstrate the effectiveness of public-private collaboration and the collective need to address climbing operational costs and complexities,” he stated.

Facilitating Trade Through Customs Initiatives

H.E. Dr. Busenad highlighted Dubai Customs’ initiatives designed to elevate operational efficiency. Noteworthy steps include:

• Implementing Customs Notice No. (6) for transit cargo via the green corridor to Oman.
• Accepting undertaking letters as valid guarantees.
• Conducting workshops for traders on green corridor operations.

Upcoming projects include launching the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) system, initializing a maritime feeder service to India, extending the green corridor to Saudi Arabia, and providing various clearance methods within secure corridors.

Preparing Future Supply Chains

Participants reviewed advancements since the previous meeting, which consisted of improved critical shipment handling, activation of alternative transport routes, and expanded use of multimodal transport options like land and rail. These efforts aim to enhance logistical efficiency, decrease costs, and promote resilient supply chains throughout the region.