Libya ACI Requirement Postponed — Shipments Can Continue Without ACI Number
Libya's planned Advanced Cargo Information requirement has been postponed indefinitely. Shipments can continue without an ACI number until further notice.
We have an important update for anyone shipping cargo to Libya.
Libya’s Advanced Cargo Information (ACI) requirement, which had been expected to take effect in late 2024, has been postponed indefinitely. Shipments can continue to Libya without an ACI number until the authorities set and announce a new implementation date.
What Does This Mean for Your Shipments?
In practical terms, if you have cargo heading to Libya right now, you do not need to obtain an ACI number to comply with Libyan port authority requirements. The postponement applies to all cargo types and all ports in Libya.
That said, this is a postponement, not a cancellation. The ACI requirement will eventually come into force — it’s simply a question of when. We’ll be keeping close track of any announcements from Libyan authorities and will share updates as soon as they’re confirmed.
Why Was It Postponed?
No official reason was given for the delay. Postponements like this are fairly common when countries introduce new cargo tracking systems — there are often technical, administrative, or capacity challenges that need to be resolved before full enforcement can begin. Libya’s situation is also complicated by the country’s ongoing political and operational complexities.
What Is the Libya ACI?
The Advanced Cargo Information system works similarly to cargo tracking programmes already in place across much of Africa. It requires shippers to declare key cargo details — type, quantity, value, container information — before the vessel departs. This gives port authorities advance notice of what’s arriving, enabling more efficient unloading and customs processing.
Stay Informed
Given that this requirement could be activated with relatively short notice, we recommend that shippers with regular Libya lanes stay alert to updates. Our team will communicate any changes as soon as we hear from the authorities.
If you have a shipment heading to Libya and want to confirm the current status, feel free to reach out.
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