Abu Dhabi Department Of Economic Development Unveils Trade Information Portal To Boost Trade Efficiency

The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has introduced the Abu Dhabi Trade Information Portal (TIP). This digital platform aims to streamline import, export, and re-export processes. It enhances transparency, reduces costs, and boosts operational efficiency. Developed with Abu Dhabi Customs and Maqta Gateway, part of Abu Dhabi Ports Group’s Digital Cluster, TIP was unveiled during the first Abu Dhabi Business Week from 4-6 December.

TIP is a significant addition to ADDED's digital solutions, complementing the Advanced Trade and Logistics Platform (ATLP). ATLP digitises trade across sea, land, airports, special economic zones, and free zones in Abu Dhabi. It also includes the Abu Dhabi Export Gateway (ADEG), which helps exporting companies find suitable markets for their products, contributing to GDP growth.

TIP provides comprehensive information on regulations, fees, taxes, and procedures for import, export, and re-export activities. It covers all trade journey stages from laws and policies to digital issuance of permits, licences, and certifications. The platform offers templates for standard trade documents like Bills of Lading (BoL) and Certificates of Origin (CO), simplifying compliance with regulations.

Using Harmonized System (HS) codes, TIP delivers tailored step-by-step guidance for each transaction based on product details and transit methods. Historical data from the Border Meter system helps evaluate anticipated timelines and costs per procedure. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), such platforms can cut customs compliance time by up to 50% and reduce operational costs by US$100 to US$1,000 per transaction.

Mohammed Al Kamali from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office highlighted TIP's role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s trade ecosystem. He stated that this platform streamlines processes while promoting a business-friendly environment through a digital-first approach. "The launch of TIP represents a transformative advancement in Abu Dhabi’s advanced trade ecosystem," he said.

Poul Hansen from UNCTAD praised TIP's alignment with UNCEFACT Recommendation No 38. He noted that it sets a benchmark for transparency in trade procedures. "The launch of the Abu Dhabi Trade Information Portal marks a significant milestone in enhancing trade and supply chain transparency," Hansen remarked.

Driving Economic Growth

Fahd Ghareeb Al Shamsi from Abu Dhabi Customs emphasised TIP's contribution to a smart economy. He mentioned that it supports logistics integration while improving customer experience through automated services. "By harnessing our logistics capabilities... we are simplifying procedures," Al Shamsi explained.

Pierre Bonthonneau from the International Trade Centre commended Abu Dhabi’s adoption of best practices in developing TIP. He believes this initiative will create a more transparent trade environment that attracts investors and traders. "This strategic initiative will foster a more transparent... strengthening the emirate’s attractiveness," Bonthonneau commented.

The introduction of TIP marks an important step towards enhancing trade efficiency in Abu Dhabi. By offering detailed information on procedures and leveraging advanced technologies, it aims to simplify transactions for businesses operating within the emirate's growing economic landscape.

With inputs from WAM