Digital Trade Facilitation: Abu Dhabi And Italy Sign A Cooperation To Advance Secure, Transparent Customs Operations

Abu Dhabi Customs and the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency have signed a cooperation document aimed at safer and faster trade. The agreement seeks to improve customs procedures, support economic growth, and deepen trade and investment ties between Abu Dhabi and Italy.

The cooperation focuses on secure digital processes that allow real-time customs data sharing and quicker movement of goods. It also highlights work on a trusted digital trade corridor and the wider use of advanced technologies to make bilateral trade more efficient and more competitive.

The document was signed by Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, and Andrea Mazzella, Director of the International Relations Office at the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency. The signing followed a bilateral meeting held during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum in Milan.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, and Abdulla Ali Al Subousi, Ambassador of the UAE to the Italian Republic, attended the announcement. Their presence underlined the importance both governments place on customs cooperation to support long-term economic and trade objectives.

During the Milan meeting, both sides discussed ways to expand strategic partnerships that help business growth and cross-border investment flows. They explored how closer customs coordination could make supply chains more reliable and improve the trading environment for companies operating between Abu Dhabi and Italy.

The parties stressed the role of customs administrations in keeping shipments moving smoothly while maintaining control and compliance. They highlighted the use of advanced systems, artificial intelligence tools, and trusted digital trade corridors to raise transparency, integrate operations, and strengthen reliable data exchange between customs authorities.

Abu Dhabi Customs cooperation backed by innovation focus

Under the cooperation document, the two customs agencies agreed to share expertise and best practices in several operational areas. Joint initiatives will aim to improve supply chain resilience, speed up customs clearance, and promote new approaches that support innovation in trade and customs services.

Al Mansoori said that cooperation with the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency supports the Government of Abu Dhabi’s plan for a future-ready economy and a stronger role in global trade and investment. Al Mansoori noted that the document reflects a focus on international partnerships and lasting institutional collaboration across customs functions.

Mazzella said, "The signing of this cooperation document underscores the strength of the growing partnership between Italy and the UAE. Close collaboration with Abu Dhabi Customs will support innovation-driven customs cooperation, enhance cross-border trade partnerships, and contribute to the digital transformation of customs administrations globally." The agreement is expected to support more efficient trade between both sides while aligning customs practices with international standards.

With inputs from WAM