ع
The Qatar Chamber announced that it collaborated with the General Authority of Customs to organise a training programme on the Electronic ATA Carnet for more than 35 customs employees. The session took place at the authority’s headquarters and formed part of broader efforts to advance digital transformation while streamlining customs procedures. Trainers Dr. Jihad Itani and Ms. Tania Radwan from the Qatar Chamber delivered the content, focusing on practical applications of the system.
According to the chamber, H.E. Sheikha Tamader Al Thani, Director of the International Relations and Chamber Affairs Department, stated that the programme reflects the strong ongoing cooperation between the Qatar Chamber and the General Authority of Customs to modernise customs services and improve cross-border efficiency. Sheikha Tamader Al Thani noted the importance of such initiatives in facilitating international trade and supporting the business environment in Qatar. The training aligns with regional moves toward digital customs solutions across the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The e-ATA Carnet represents a digital evolution of the traditional ATA Carnet, a system led by the World Customs Organization and the International Chamber of Commerce that enables duty-free temporary import and export of goods. Guidance from the UK government indicates that the global transition to fully digital carnets is set to conclude by the end of 2027, with initial rollout in 30 countries beginning in June 2026. Participants in the Qatar session gained familiarity with electronic processes that replace paper vouchers through QR codes and mobile applications.
Topics addressed during the training included the core concepts of the e-ATA system, procedures for issuance and usage of electronic carnets, as well as temporary admission and re-export formalities. The respective roles of customs authorities and chambers of commerce featured prominently in the curriculum, according to details shared by the Qatar Chamber. Practical case studies allowed attendees to follow the complete lifecycle of an electronic carnet from initial application through final clearance.
This latest programme follows a similar effort earlier in the month when the Qatar Chamber provided virtual training on the same system to more than 70 officials from Saudi Arabia’s Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority. That two-day course, coordinated with the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce, covered identical subject matter and aimed to foster expertise exchange within the region. The repeated sessions demonstrate a commitment to building capacity in digital trade tools among GCC partners.
The ATA Carnet system is utilised in approximately 80 countries and territories worldwide, helping businesses avoid the need for multiple customs declarations. Adoption of the electronic format is expected to reduce administrative burdens and enhance tracking capabilities for both authorities and traders. Officials from the involved Qatari entities continue to coordinate on further implementation steps for the e-ATA framework.
