Advance Cargo Information for Export shipments to Libya

In accordance with the new Libyan customs law, Advance Cargo Information (ACI) is becoming mandatory for all import shipments to Libya.

The Libyan customs authority has announced a trial period from July 30, 2024, until November 1, 2024, after which the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) will be strictly required for all import shipments. Carriers will be required by law to validate ACI-related information prior to loading at the first load port. It is important to note that the customer is fully responsible for submitting accurate shipment details during the ACI creation stage. In the event of any misdeclaration, the liability will rest with the customer.

Consequently, exporters should provide a valid ACI Number created before loading at the first load port, which must be mentioned on the Bill of Lading.

To comply with the complete implementation of ACI, as of November 1, 2024, customers should provide the ACI number and date in cargo description while submitting Shipping Instructions no later than 36 hours prior to the intended vessel’s arrival (ETA) at the first load port.

Shipping instructions will be rejected if any of the following references are missing.

Additionally, the shipment would miss the loading plan if the details listed below are not provided on time:

1. Valid ACI number.
2. ACI approval date in DD/MM/YYYY format

With the complete implementation on November 1, 2024, Maersk will strictly refrain from loading any shipments destined to Libya at the first load port if ACI-related data is missing or fails validation.

It is also important to highlight that, according to the new setup, Libyan importers and their exporters should register at aci.customs.gov.ly to generate the ACI for their shipments and to ensure validation from both sides.

The dates in this document represent the current timeframe announced by the Libyan Customs Authority. For more information about ACI, please visit aci.customs.gov.ly.

Exceptional cases process will be shared in a 2nd advisory once received from Libyan customs authorities.

We want to thank you for your business and look forward to continuously serving your global transportation needs.