Qatar Chamber trains customs officials on e-ATA Carnet

Doha, Qatar - The General Authority of Customs (GAC) and Qatar Chamber (QC) recently collaborated to deliver a training program aimed at equipping over 35 customs officials with knowledge on the electronic ATA Carnet (e-ATA Carnet). This initiative is part of the broader digital transformation efforts and aims to streamline customs procedures.

The training session, held at GAC headquarters, was conducted by Dr. Jihad Itani and Tania Radwan from Qatar Chamber, who discussed the system's applications, operational procedures, and benefits.

QC Director of International Relations and Chamber Affairs Department, Sheikha Tamader Al Thani, emphasized the significance of this program. She highlighted the strong partnership between QC and GAC to modernize customs services and improve cross-border efficiency. Al Thani praised the active engagement of GAC officials, noting their shared dedication to enhancing professional skills and embracing electronic systems aligned with Qatar’s digital transformation objectives.

The ATA Carnet is a key tool for the temporary admission of goods, including exhibition items, professional equipment, and commercial samples, without incurring standard customs duties or taxes. Transitioning to the e-ATA Carnet represents a significant development for businesses, as it minimizes the use of paper documents, speeds up transaction processing, and ensures greater data accuracy and transparency.

Apart from technical aspects, the training aimed to align procedures and enhance coordination among relevant entities, thereby improving service delivery for businesses, importers, and exporters.

The curriculum encompassed critical topics such as the core concepts of the e-ATA Carnet, the process of issuing and using electronic carnets, procedures for temporary admission and re-export, the roles of customs authorities and chambers of commerce, and the tracking of carnets alongside related transactions. Through practical case studies, participants gained a thorough understanding of the complete process—from issuance to final customs clearance and re-export.