"Zakat, Tax and Customs Author...

The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority in Saudi Arabia has begun accepting the ATA Carnet for temporary admission of goods at all its land, sea, and air customs ports. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom's commitment to the Istanbul Convention (temporary admission), supporting the business sector and enhancing the Kingdom's position as a global destination for events, exhibitions, and activities.

The Authority added that accepting the ATA Carnet represents a positive step towards enabling the growth of the events, exhibitions, and international conferences sector. This decision supports efforts by relevant entities to attract global exhibitions and conferences, overcoming challenges in this field according to best global practices. It enhances the Kingdom's status as an international destination for economic, tourism, and entertainment activities, and also boosts inter-regional trade and international trade engagement.

In addition to supporting the events sector, the acceptance of the ATA Carnet aims to facilitate trade and streamline customs procedures for goods. This is achieved by reducing requirements using an internationally recognized customs document that allows temporary admission of goods with an international guarantee covering duties and taxes. This facilitates import and export operations, reducing financial and administrative burdens on companies.

The Authority clarified that goods that can be temporarily imported under the ATA Carnet include those intended for display or use in exhibitions, markets, meetings, or similar events, professional equipment, containers and pallets, packaging materials and samples, and other items related to business operations. It also includes goods imported for educational, scientific, or cultural purposes.

The Authority indicated that, accordingly, the Saudi Chambers Federation will be the accredited guarantor in the Kingdom for the ATA Carnet, as approved by the Authority. The Saudi Chambers Federation will also be the issuing body for the ATA Carnet and has the right to delegate others, allowing beneficiaries to import goods temporarily under the ATA Carnet without providing a financial guarantee.

The ATA Carnet is an international customs document that allows the temporary admission of goods without a financial guarantee. It is used in nearly 80 countries worldwide, reflecting its importance in facilitating international trade and enhancing trade cooperation between countries.

The acceptance of the ATA Carnet by the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority demonstrates the Kingdom's commitment to facilitating trade and enhancing its position as a global destination for events and exhibitions. Through this initiative, the Authority supports the business sector, simplifies customs procedures, and promotes international trade cooperation