Latest news with #JordanCustomsDepartment
Jordan Times
05-05-2025
- Jordan Times
JCD foils attempt to smuggle 16kg of marijuana at Queen Alia Airport
The Jordan Customs Department (JCD), in cooperation with the Anti-Narcotics Department (AND) and security agencies, on Sunday thwarts an attempt to smuggle 16 kilogrammes of marijuana through Queen Alia International Airport's passenger terminal (Petra photo) AMMAN — The Jordan Customs Department (JCD), in cooperation with the Anti-Narcotics Department (AND) and security agencies, on Sunday thwarted an attempt to smuggle 16 kilogrammes of marijuana through Queen Alia International Airport's passenger terminal. In a statement, the JCD said that a passenger of East Asian nationality, arriving from an Arab country, was flagged as suspicious by customs and security personnel. A detailed search of the individual's luggage revealed a quantity of marijuana concealed in their belongings. The suspect was immediately arrested, and the narcotics were handed over to the AND for further legal action. Reaffirming its commitment to national security, the JCD emphasised its continued readiness to combat the smuggling of prohibited or harmful substances in cooperation with security agencies at all border crossings.
Al Etihad
25-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Customs showcases AI-driven digital transformation to Jordanian delegation following International Trade Centre recommendation
25 Apr 2025 12:00 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs hosted a high-level delegation from the Jordan Customs Department for a three-day study visit. This visit, organised by the International Trade Centre in Geneva (ITC) as part of a technical support programme for Jordanian Customs, focused on exploring best practices and leading customs projects implemented in Abu Dhabi, based on modern technologies and artificial intelligence applications. This is particularly in the field of customs risk management and is in line with international standards to facilitate cross-border trade and enhance the efficiency of supply Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, welcomed the visiting delegation headed by Major General Ahmed Mohammed Al-Akalik, Director General of the Jordan Customs Department, during their reception at the headquarters of Abu Dhabi meeting was attended by a representative of the International Trade Centre. Both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation and exchange expertise to support the achievement of shared visions and objectives in developing customs systems and improving operational Jordanian delegation's visit to Abu Dhabi Customs came upon the recommendation of the International Trade Centre, in recognition of Abu Dhabi Customs' outstanding achievements in digital transformation. Its experience is considered among the most advanced and unique models globally in the implementation and development of best customs practices within an integrated system that supports the business ecosystem in Abu Dhabi and the visit included detailed presentations on operational customs systems, in addition to field visits during which the delegation was briefed on Abu Dhabi Customs' new Strategic Plan 2024–2028 and the roadmap for strategic projects designed to empower customs operations in the emirate. They were also introduced to the Digital Transformation Strategy and the advanced solutions delivered to the customs and trade community at both local and international delegation also learned about key digital initiatives supporting non-oil economic growth, including the DHAFRA Advanced Data and Future Reporting Canter, powered by Artificial Intelligence, and the integrated Customs Risk Management System – Lahej Al Mansoori said: 'Abu Dhabi Customs is committed to building an innovative customs model that supports the business environment, meets the aspirations of the wise leadership, and translates Abu Dhabi's vision for sustainable economic leadership. This is achieved through optimal investment in technology and knowledge, strengthening regional and international partnerships, and providing a smart infrastructure based on flexibility, precision, and efficiency.'Al Mansoori emphasised that digital transformation and the adoption of artificial intelligence tools are no longer optional, but rather a fundamental pillar to ensure sustainable economic growth, support the global competitiveness of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, and reinforce their position as attractive destination for business and General Ahmed Mohammed Al-Akalik expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to Abu Dhabi Customs for their generous hospitality and valuable engagement through advanced expertise and knowledge. Al-Akalik also recognised the exchange of adopting and utilising cutting-edge technologies and best practices in customs operations and performance enhancement. This has contributed to consolidating Abu Dhabi Customs' position on the global level, as acknowledged by the International Trade Centre, whose support was instrumental in the success of this visit. He also highlighted the Jordan Customs Department's interest in continuing future cooperation and coordination with Abu Dhabi Customs to exchange expertise in ways that serve shared goals and support economic growth across the region. Raghad Altalli, Programme Lead and Senior Trade Facilitation Advisor at the International Trade Centre, said that the selection of Abu Dhabi Customs as a destination for this study visit stems from the global recognition of its outstanding achievements in digital transformation. Altalli praised the customs projects implemented in Abu Dhabi, which have made it as a model to be followed and an inspiring benchmark for customs authorities and the global trade and logistics ecosystem in keeping pace with future developments. Altalli expressed her gratitude for the cooperation, high professionalism, and generosity of Abu Dhabi Customs leadership in sharing their valuable expertise at the international level.
Jordan News
20-04-2025
- Jordan News
Foiled Attempt to Smuggle a Large Quantity of Cigarette Cartons - Jordan News
The spokesperson for the Jordan Customs Department announced that customs personnel at the Al-Karamah border crossing, in cooperation with security agencies, successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 2,389 cigarette cartons that were secretly hidden inside a cargo refrigerator truck driven by an Arab national. اضافة اعلان According to details provided by the spokesperson, suspicion arose during the truck's entry from a neighboring country. Upon conducting a thorough inspection, secret compartments prepared specifically for smuggling were discovered, containing 2,389 cartons of cigarettes intended for illegal distribution. The contraband was seized, and legal procedures were taken in accordance with regulations. The spokesperson stressed that all forms of smuggling pose a threat to public health and safety, as such goods are not subject to the oversight of relevant authorities and do not comply with Jordanian standards. In addition, the smuggled goods avoid payment of customs duties, which is a violation of the law and undermines fairness in the market. The Jordan Customs Department urges citizens to report any suspected smuggling activities that may harm the national economy by calling the toll-free number 105. All information is handled with strict confidentiality.
Zawya
10-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: JCD processes over 950,000 customs declarations in 2024 — Director-general
AMMAN: Faced with a 'record-breaking' volume of customs activity, Jordan Customs Department (JCD) is undergoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and investor confidence, JCD Director-General Maj. Gen. Ahmad Akalik said on Wednesday. Speaking at a government communications forum titled "Achievements of the Jordan Customs Department", Akalik said that the department processed more than 950,000 customs declarations in 2024, figures he described as a "compelling reason" to adopt new working methods in line with the best global practices and digital transformation. "These changes are not cosmetic. They reflect His Majesty King Abdullah's vision to modernise public services and empower the private sector," he said as reported by the Jordan News Agency, Petra. Akalik revealed that 91 per cent of tariff lines are fully or partially exempted from customs duties, mainly raw materials that are essential for local production, noting that only 9 per cent of items are subject to tariffs ranging from 0 to 25 per cent, and national exports are completely exempted. "These exemptions aim at reducing production costs, increasing competitiveness and creating a more attractive environment for local and foreign investment," he said, stressing that the remaining tariffs are structured to protect domestic industries. He also highlighted that the JCD continues to regularly review its policies to align them with national development goals, highlighting that the reforms are part of a broader economic modernisation drive aimed at positioning Jordan as a 'productive, export-oriented' economy. Addressing speculation about the reopening of the Ramtha customs centre, Akalik pointed out that any decision would have to be coordinated with Syrian authorities and that the issue was not currently under consideration. He also noted that the old Amman Customs Centre has not been completely vacated, with some departments, such as foreign vehicle registration and customs licensing, still operating on site. Highlighting the department's efforts to banking on infrastructure upgrades and technological innovation to cement Jordan's position as a regional logistics hub, he said that the new Amman Customs Centre in Madouneh, which covers 950 dunums, can accommodate inspections of up to 192 trucks at a time and features 'state-of-the-art' AI-driven systems. Akalik added that the changes will also benefit Jordan's development and industrial zones, whose products will now be treated as national goods, simplifying market access and reducing logistical bottlenecks. Among the most significant reforms are amendments to the Customs Law, which will shift from a pre-clearance inspection model to post-clearance audits, the director-general said. This shift will allow compliant traders to obtain immediate release of goods while preserving the authority of the department to verify documentation at a later date, a move Akalik described as a "game changer" for trade facilitation. The department is also using artificial intelligence to improve risk management, analyse data and replace manual inspections with remote monitoring systems, he said. According to Akalik, this move is crucial to improving transparency and closing the door to fraud and manipulation. Noting that the JCD has already received international recognition for its efforts, he said that the department won the King Abdullah II Excellence Award for e-services, and the World Customs Organisation has adopted its model as a global reference. Despite the progress, Akalik acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges is changing the culture around customs operations within the department and among stakeholders. He noted that to address this, the department plans to launch public awareness campaigns to explain the benefits of the new systems. Supporting the department's vision, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Government Communications Zaid Nawaisah said that the JCD has emerged as a national leader in streamlining trade, stimulating the economy and promoting a fair business environment. "The ministry has a critical role to play in highlighting these successes and building public confidence in government institutions," Nawaisah added. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Jordan Times
09-04-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
JCD processes over 950,000 customs declarations in 2024 — Director-general
Jordan Customs Department Director-General Maj. Gen. Ahmad Akalik says that 91 per cent of tariff lines are fully or partially exempted from customs duties, mainly raw materials that are essential for local production (Petra photo) AMMAN — Faced with a 'record-breaking' volume of customs activity, Jordan Customs Department (JCD) is undergoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and investor confidence, JCD Director-General Maj. Gen. Ahmad Akalik said on Wednesday. Speaking at a government communications forum titled "Achievements of the Jordan Customs Department", Akalik said that the department processed more than 950,000 customs declarations in 2024, figures he described as a "compelling reason" to adopt new working methods in line with the best global practices and digital transformation. "These changes are not cosmetic. They reflect His Majesty King Abdullah's vision to modernise public services and empower the private sector," he said as reported by the Jordan News Agency, Petra. Akalik revealed that 91 per cent of tariff lines are fully or partially exempted from customs duties, mainly raw materials that are essential for local production, noting that only 9 per cent of items are subject to tariffs ranging from 0 to 25 per cent, and national exports are completely exempted. "These exemptions aim at reducing production costs, increasing competitiveness and creating a more attractive environment for local and foreign investment," he said, stressing that the remaining tariffs are structured to protect domestic industries. He also highlighted that the JCD continues to regularly review its policies to align them with national development goals, highlighting that the reforms are part of a broader economic modernisation drive aimed at positioning Jordan as a 'productive, export-oriented' economy. Addressing speculation about the reopening of the Ramtha customs centre, Akalik pointed out that any decision would have to be coordinated with Syrian authorities and that the issue was not currently under consideration. He also noted that the old Amman Customs Centre has not been completely vacated, with some departments, such as foreign vehicle registration and customs licensing, still operating on site. Highlighting the department's efforts to banking on infrastructure upgrades and technological innovation to cement Jordan's position as a regional logistics hub, he said that the new Amman Customs Centre in Madouneh, which covers 950 dunums, can accommodate inspections of up to 192 trucks at a time and features 'state-of-the-art' AI-driven systems. Akalik added that the changes will also benefit Jordan's development and industrial zones, whose products will now be treated as national goods, simplifying market access and reducing logistical bottlenecks. Among the most significant reforms are amendments to the Customs Law, which will shift from a pre-clearance inspection model to post-clearance audits, the director-general said. This shift will allow compliant traders to obtain immediate release of goods while preserving the authority of the department to verify documentation at a later date, a move Akalik described as a "game changer" for trade facilitation. The department is also using artificial intelligence to improve risk management, analyse data and replace manual inspections with remote monitoring systems, he said. According to Akalik, this move is crucial to improving transparency and closing the door to fraud and manipulation. Noting that the JCD has already received international recognition for its efforts, he said that the department won the King Abdullah II Excellence Award for e-services, and the World Customs Organisation has adopted its model as a global reference. Despite the progress, Akalik acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges is changing the culture around customs operations within the department and among stakeholders. He noted that to address this, the department plans to launch public awareness campaigns to explain the benefits of the new systems. Supporting the department's vision, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Government Communications Zaid Nawaisah said that the JCD has emerged as a national leader in streamlining trade, stimulating the economy and promoting a fair business environment. "The ministry has a critical role to play in highlighting these successes and building public confidence in government institutions," Nawaisah added.
