CargoX pioneers as first certified service provider for UAE's Maritime Preload Cargo Information (MPCI) Program
(Dubai, UAE / Ljubljana, Slovenia – 11 March 2025) CargoX has been chosen as the first service provider to support the UAE's Maritime Preload Cargo Information (MPCI) program, a significant step towards bolstering the security and efficiency of maritime trade within the region.
The MPCI program, led by the UAE’s National Advance Information Center (NAIC) under the umbrella of Federal Authority of Identity Citizenship, customs and Ports Security (ICP) is a government initiative to enhance cargo security and facilitate the Trading by requiring the advance submission of containerised cargo information for shipments bound for UAE ports. The launch is scheduled for late June 2025.
How CargoX helps MPCI
CargoX's platform will allow shipping lines, forwarders and other relevant parties of all sizes to securely and efficiently submit the required Bill of Lading data to ICP- NAIC system. It will ensure the proper handling of the filing process, including in cases where filing is delegated.
Through this collaboration, CargoX will provide two essential channels:
A web application designed for small and medium enterprises without integrated systems.
API integration capabilities for larger customers with existing ERP and TMS systems.
“This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in modernising the UAE's maritime trade infrastructure while maintaining robust security standards. Critically, it supports parties of all sizes to submit data electronically, lowering barriers to entry and helping even SMEs on their digital transformation journey.” – Bojan Čekrlić, CEO at CargoX.
“Digitalisation offers significant opportunities, but we must be mindful of the needs of all parties. The MPCI system gives us the ability to improve security while safeguarding efficient trade. Its platform’s interoperability allows us to connect with parties of all sizes.” – HE Mubarak AlGhafli NAIC Executive director.
About the UAE MPCI Program
The MPCI system, implemented under Federal Law #52 of 2022, will enable early risk and compliance assessment for maritime cargo bound for the UAE before loading. At a time of ongoing regional unrest, it will contribute to increased border security levels while facilitating efficient trade flows.
The program requires shipping lines and freight forwarders to submit electronic Bills of Lading data (eBLs) to NAIC before loading at the last foreign departure port outside the UAE.
Key aspects of the MPCI program include:
Filing Responsibility: Shipping lines are responsible for filing the carrier’s Bill of Lading, while freight forwarders (or NVOCCs) must file House eBL. Local freight forwarders can delegate filing to overseas partners, and shipping lines can delegate to overseas or local agents; however, liability remains with the local freight forwarder and the shipping line, respectively.
Scope: The program applies to all containerised maritime cargo destined for import, transshipment, transit, or Freight Remaining on Board (FROB) in the UAE.
Filing Process: Shipping lines can file directly with NAIC or through certified service providers, while freight forwarders must file through certified service providers.
NAIC Responses: After filing, ICP- NAIC system will respond with one of the following main status codes: ACT (Accepted), DNL (Do Not Load), or RFI (Request for Information).
Registration: Shipping lines and freight forwarders can register on the NAIC portal starting in March 2025, and it will be mandatory for freight forwarders prior to the launch date.
The MPCI program specifically targets containerised cargo shipping lines, maritime freight forwarders/NVOCCs, and shipping agents (if delegated by a shipping line).