Emirates Shipping Line (ESL) would like to inform you of important updates regarding the UAE National Advance Information Centre (NAIC) regulatory framework for Maritime Preload Cargo Information (MPCI).
Please note that the grace period for full MPCI implementation has been extended until 30 September 2026. This extension is provided to support customers in aligning their processes; however, MPCI filing remains mandatory effective 1st July 2026.
Customers are therefore required to begin compliance immediately and should not wait until the end of the grace period. This requirement applies to:
• Imports into the UAE
• Transshipment cargo via UAE ports
• Transit shipments (FROB)
1. Implementation Timeline Update
• Grace period extended until 30 September 2026
• MPCI filing remains mandatory effective 1st July 2026
• “No Doc, No Load” policy to be enforced by 01 October 2026 During the extended transition (grace) period:
• Only Acceptance responses (ACT / OK to Load) will be issued
• RFI (Request for Information) and DNL (Do Not Load) responses will remain suspended
• No penalties or enforcement actions will apply for late MPCI submissions
2. Customer Action Required (Effective Immediately)
Customers are required to:
• Begin updating accurate MPCI codes in all Shipping Instructions (SI) with immediate effect
• Ensure complete and accurate SI submission including all shipment and party details
• Align internal systems and processes to meet MPCI compliance requirements ahead of 01 October 2026
3. Shipping Instruction Cut-Off
Shipping Instructions must be submitted 2 working days prior to vessel arrival at Port of Loading to ensure compliance with NAIC requirements.
4. Bill of Lading Declaration
• Imports into UAE: Must be declared as “Direct” or “Master Bill of Lading”
• Transshipment / Transit (FROB): Declared as “Direct Bill of Lading” as per NAIC requirements
5. SI Submission Requirements (ESEA / Digital Platforms)
• No HBL (BCO customers):
“Direct Bill of Lading” must be indicated in the Additional Information field
• With HBL (NVOCC / Freight Forwarders):
“Master Bill of Lading” along with the 7-digit MPCI code (e.g., MPCI123) must be updated
For SI submitted via INTTRA, Cargo Wise, EDI, or other platforms, customers must ensure correct system field mapping.
In the absence of required information, shipments will be declared as “Direct Bill of Lading.” For more details: https://naic.icp.gov.ae/portal/link
6. Mandatory SI Data Requirements
Shipping Instructions must include:
• Standard Bill of Lading details
• Ports (POL, POD, transshipment, receipt, delivery)
• Container and seal details
• Cargo description and HS codes
• Complete party details (shipper, consignee, notify, forwarders, agents)
• Vessel and voyage details
• MPCI Party ID and identifiers
7. Forwarder Responsibility
• Complete one-time NAIC registration to obtain MPCI code
• Ensure MPCI code is included in SI
• Submit HBL filing within required timelines
• Maintain full compliance with MPCI regulations
8. Additional Guidance
• SOP and Genesis Manual will be shared in due course
• Customers are strongly advised to ensure readiness before 01 October 2026 enforcement
9. Consequences of Non-Compliance (Post Implementation)
Failure to comply may result in:
• Penalties imposed by UAE Customs / NAIC
•Cargo returned to Port of Loading (FROB) at customer’s cost
• Change of Destination (COD) with associated charges
Should you require any clarification or support, please contact your local Customer Experience team.
Emirates Shipping Line Agencies
