The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced a new set of regulations aimed at streamlining the operations of shipping agents, a strategic move designed to enhance operational efficiency at Saudi ports. Starting in May 2026, all shipping agents will be required to adhere to three specific and key conditions to ensure the clearance of incoming maritime shipments at the Kingdom's seaports.
The three requirements for clearing maritime shipments
The new guidelines issued by the authority include the necessity of including accurate and detailed data in the shipment manifest, and these requirements are focused on the following points:
- Inclusion of the Global Harmonised System Code: Agents are required to enter the Global Harmonised System (HS) Code for the first six digits at the item level in every sea shipment passing through Saudi ports, which facilitates the classification of goods globally and speeds up customs procedures.
- Determining the size of goods accurately: The official circular mandated determining the size of goods with extreme precision, whether these goods are classified as imports, exports, or transshipment shipments.
- Disclosure of dangerous goods: The instructions stressed the imperative of accurate and transparent disclosure of the type and details of dangerous goods, to ensure the application of the highest safety and security standards in the port environment.
Strategic context and historical background
These regulatory moves come within the context of the historic transformation underway in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030, specifically the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. Historically, Saudi ports have been transitioning from paper-based and traditional systems to adopting the latest digital technologies and smart port initiatives. This ongoing development aims to improve the quality of shipping data and reduce container dwell times in the yards, which will positively impact the Kingdom's global Logistics Performance Index.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
This regulatory decision, which came about through joint and effective coordination with the Federation of Saudi Chambers and the Eastern Province Chamber, carries extremely important economic and logistical dimensions on several levels:
- At the local level: The decision will ensure the smooth flow of trade and the integration of efforts between the public and private sectors, reducing operational costs for importers and exporters and accelerating the customs clearance cycle.
- At the regional level: This measure enhances the competitiveness of Saudi ports compared to their counterparts in the region, making the Kingdom the preferred destination for global shipping lines as a leading logistics hub linking three continents.
- At the international level: Accurate data compliance contributes to the sustainability of global supply chains and is consistent with the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Customs Organization, thereby increasing the reliability of cross-border trade.
Strict penalties for violators
To ensure strict enforcement, the General Authority of Ports has issued a firm warning that any deficiencies or inaccuracies in the data submitted by shipping agents will result in the immediate rejection of the shipment's manifest. The Authority emphasized that it will not hesitate to apply the established legal procedures against any non-compliant agents. This stringent approach is essential for maintaining port efficiency, protecting economic and environmental security, and guaranteeing the smooth and safe flow of goods.
