Mandatory Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) for Shipments to Sudan
Effective Date: 1 January 2026
Important Notice to All Stakeholders
Pursuant to the official circular issued by the Sudan Customs Authority under reference No. (و/د/ج/ع/4/غ/م/1/ت/ح) dated 9 November 2025, and as part of Sudan’s alignment with modern customs systems and international trade standards, the Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) system has been formally adopted.
The Sudan Customs Authority has confirmed that the ACD system will become mandatory for all shipments destined for Sudan as of 1 January 2026.
Overview of the ACD System
The Sea Ports Corporation (SPC) has confirmed that an Advance Cargo Declaration is compulsory for all cargo entering Sudanese ports.
- The ACD certificate must be obtained at the port of loading
- Responsibility for obtaining the ACD lies with the exporter, shipper, or freight forwarder
- The ACD reference number must be clearly indicated on the Bill of Lading
Documents Required for ACD Issuance
To apply for an ACD, the following documents are required:
- Draft Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
Responsibilities and Compliance Obligations
- Shipping lines are responsible for ensuring that all cargo loaded on vessels—including vehicles, trucks, heavy machinery, and oversized or project cargo—holds a valid ACD reference
- All parties involved in the shipment process must fully comply with the ACD regulations
- Verification of ACD reference numbers must be conducted exclusively through the official channels authorized by the Sudan Customs Authority
For further information regarding ACD procedures, requirements, or compliance support, please contact our team.
We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring efficient, compliant, and uninterrupted shipments to Sudan.