ZATCA seeks public opinion on draft rules for bonded zones

Logo of Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA)

The Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) invited public input on the draft rules for bonded zones through the Istitlaa Platform until Oct. 6, 2023. 

The rules aim to define the tasks and responsibilities between the authority and all external parties and to regulate the customs aspects in the bonded zones and the relevant controls per the GCC Unified Customs Law. 

Bonded zones are areas under the supervision of ZATCA and the operating company of the bonded zone, in which the goods placed are suspended from duties and restrictions until they are entered into the local market or re-exported. 

The bonded zones aim to provide a supportive regulatory environment for the movement of goods and logistics services in the Kingdom and facilitate trade to enhance the Kingdom's position as a global logistics hub. 

According to the draft, bonded zones shall be established inside or outside the customs department by a decision of the governor, and the authority may approve the application to operate the bonded zone after fulfilling all the relevant requirements. 

The operating company shall abide by the relevant terms and conditions.