Emirates SkyCargo has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Customs as part of a global initiative to reduce paperwork and expedite the movement of goods in the air cargo supply chain.

The MoU will lead to a greater use of electronic correspondence in transactions between Emirates SkyCargo, Dubai Customs and several other supply chain partners who signed the MoU.

In addition, the initiative will allow importers and exporters to perform 51 customs transactions electronically without having to physically visit the customs centres.

Ram Menen, Emirates Divisional Senior Vice President Cargo, who signed the MoU on behalf of Emirates SkyCargo, said: “Such an initiative, when fully implemented, will allow a more fluid flow of legitimate goods through the air and sea borders, thus eliminating potential bottlenecks. Given the current and projected year-on-year growth in Dubai, we are sure to realise the benefits quickly.”

Aside from the environmental benefits of reducing the masses of paperwork and, in turn the additional fees, historically involved in air freight, e-freight has been praised for reducing costs and thereby improving the competitiveness of the mode.

Emirates SkyCargo is represented in Malta by Cassar & Cooper Limited. Emirates flies from Malta to Dubai five times weekly via Larnaca, Cyprus, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The new Boeing 777-200 used on the Malta route has a freight capacity of 18 tons each way. Enquiries on Emirates SkyCargo can be made at Air Cargo House, Ganni Vassallo Street, Luqa, on telephone number 2166-0102, or at skycargomla@ emirates.com.