Cargo Detained in Egypt: What Should a Foreign Shipper Do?

Cargo may arrive at an Egyptian port and subsequently be detained or prevented from being released because of an issue concerning documentation, classification, valuation, inspection or other customs or regulatory requirements.

In such circumstances, simply waiting is rarely the best approach. Every additional day may generate storage, port charges, demurrage or other costs, while the issue may develop from a customs procedure into a wider commercial or maritime dispute.

The first step is to identify the actual reason for the detention and the party responsible for addressing it, followed by a review of the documents and information submitted to Customs and the relevant authorities, and an assessment of whether the issue can be corrected, challenged administratively or addressed through appropriate legal proceedings.

At the same time, the contractual position of the parties involved in the maritime transaction should be protected, particularly the exporter, importer, shipper, receiver, charterer and shipowner, where the detention gives rise to delay claims or additional costs.

Prompt and structured action can be critical in limiting losses and preventing a potentially manageable customs issue from developing into a prolonged and costly dispute.