The UAE is introducing new cargo security regulations through the Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) Program, managed by the National Advance Information Center (NAIC) under the Federal Authority of Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP). Effective July 2025, this regulation requires electronic submission of containerized cargo details at least 24 hours prior to vessel departure from the last foreign departure port outside the UAE.
Incorrect or delayed filings can result in Do Not Load directives, shipment delays, or broader supply chain disruption. Many freight forwarders overpay for filing services or face difficulty managing compliance due to administrative complexity.
Trade Tech provides a cost-effective, streamlined solution that allows freight forwarders to manage their compliance obligations independently, without sacrificing accuracy or control.
The MPCI Program applies to all containerized maritime cargo bound for UAE ports, including import, transshipment, transit, and Freight Remaining on Board (FROB) cargo.
Filing responsibilities include:
To comply with NAIC MPCI regulations, the following data must be submitted electronically before vessel departure:
Filings that do not meet these criteria may result in a Do Not Load status, which prevents the shipment from being loaded.
No, NAIC (National Advance Information Center) is a separate authority, and MPCI filing is independent of customs filing.
MPCI applies to maritime cargo, whereas PLACI (Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information) applies to air cargo.
• Registration is open starting March 2025.
• Documents submission begins in July 2025.
You can find the MPCI Business Specification Document here.
You can find the MPCI Onboarding Guide here.
You can find the Message Implementation Guide (MIG) here.
To become a certified service provider with NAIC, contact NAIC directly at “mpci.inquiries@icp.gov.ae” to understand the requirements and provide the necessary information.
Any updates to the Bill of Lading must be submitted to NAIC. This includes, but is not limited to, corrections, route changes, shipment splits, switch bills, or updates in response to an RFI from NAIC. Filers are expected to submit amendments whenever there are changes to the original filing.
Yes, a response will be issued for every filing, including amendments.
Yes, amendments can still be submitted after receiving an ACT response. Filers should ensure that any updates are accurate and aligned with operational requirements.
Yes, RFIs (Requests for Information) may still be issued after loading, and the filer is required to respond.
Yes, updating core elements after loading may lead to a re-assessment, which in rare cases could result in a shipment that was previously approved for loading receiving a DNL (Do Not Load) referral. While DNL cases are uncommon, if issued, relevant authorities may be notified to take necessary action upon arrival.
A filing must be canceled if the shipment is no longer coming to the UAE due to a shipment cancellation or a route change. In this case, the filer must submit an update to the original filing to reflect the cancellation.
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