Customs Regulations
Categories: Industry Insights|Published On: February 10, 2025|3 min read|

As the UAE strengthens its position as a global logistics and trade hub, customs regulations continue to evolve to align with international standards, sustainability goals, and national food security strategies. For distributors and importers, staying informed and compliant with these regulatory changes is essential for ensuring smooth operations and avoiding costly delays.

At Bagher Rasti General Trading Co LLC, we recognize the importance of proactive compliance in today’s fast-moving wholesale and trading environment. This article highlights key updates to UAE customs regulations in 2025 and offers insights into how distributors can adapt effectively.

📌 Why Customs Regulations Are Evolving

Recent updates to customs procedures are driven by several strategic goals:

  • Enhancing border security and traceability

  • Promoting transparency and fair trade

  • Streamlining logistics through digitization

  • Supporting environmental and sustainability initiatives

These changes affect multiple categories of goods, particularly foodstuff, kitchenware, and glassware, which are subject to stringent documentation and quality control standards.

🔍 Key Regulatory Updates Distributors Should Be Aware Of

1. Digital Submission of Customs Documents

All import documentation must now be submitted electronically through approved platforms such as Dubai Trade, Abu Dhabi Customs, and other emirate-specific systems. Manual or paper-based submissions are no longer accepted.

✅ Action Point: Ensure that your internal team is trained on these systems and that all records are digitized and compliant with the new standards.

2. Updated Product Classification Codes (HS Codes)

The UAE has adopted updated Harmonized System (HS) codes, particularly affecting food categories and kitchenware classifications. Incorrect or outdated HS codes may result in shipment delays or fines.

✅ Action Point: Review your product database and verify that all SKUs are correctly classified according to the latest HS code list.

3. Certificate of Origin (COO) Requirements

Authorities now require certified Certificates of Origin for all imported goods. This is particularly crucial for foodstuff and glassware products, as traceability and origin verification are now closely monitored.

✅ Action Point: Work only with suppliers who provide complete and authenticated COO documentation to prevent customs rejection.

4. Eco-Friendly Packaging Compliance

In support of the UAE’s environmental goals, certain emirates have begun encouraging or requiring biodegradable or recyclable packaging for imported goods, especially within food-related categories.

✅ Action Point: Evaluate your current packaging materials and consider transitioning to compliant, sustainable alternatives.

5. Food Labeling and Shelf-Life Standards

Imported food items must display shelf-life, nutritional facts, and full ingredient lists in both Arabic and English. Non-compliant products are subject to fines, rejection, or destruction at port.

✅ Action Point: Conduct a compliance check on all food labeling before shipment and ensure bilingual labeling is accurate and clear.

⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation

  • Using outdated HS codes

  • Failing to provide bilingual product labels

  • Ignoring COO and traceability requirements

  • Not updating packaging in line with new sustainability standards

🛠️ How Bagher Rasti Co Supports Seamless Compliance

At Bagher Rasti General Trading Co LLC, we are fully aligned with the UAE’s regulatory framework. We assist our clients and partners by:

  • Providing up-to-date documentation for every shipment

  • Ensuring product classification and labeling accuracy

  • Coordinating directly with customs brokers and logistics providers

  • Advising on sourcing and packaging compliance strategies

We are committed to facilitating smooth customs clearance and helping our partners minimize risk while maintaining operational efficiency.

✅ Conclusion

As customs regulations become more advanced and more specific, it’s crucial for distributors to remain agile and informed. By implementing smart compliance practices and partnering with experienced trading companies like Bagher Rasti Co, businesses can ensure seamless import processes, avoid delays, and maintain strong supply chain performance.

For further assistance or compliance support tailored to your needs, please contact our team. We’re here to help your business move forward—confidently and compliantly.

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