Egyptian Customs Authority and U.S. Government Celebrate Re-opening of National Customs Training Institute

June 28, 2012

Alexandria – U.S. Ambassador Anne W. Patterson joined with representatives of the Egyptian Customs Authority (ECA) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to celebrate the re-opening of ECA’s National Customs Training Institute (NCTI) in Alexandria on Wednesday.

“Trade is a vitally important engine for Egypt’s economic growth,” Ambassador Patterson remarked.  “The National Customs Training Institute is a backbone for the efficiency of the Egyptian Customs Authority, and we are very pleased to have supported its renovation.”   

Through a project implemented by USAID, the Government of Egypt has been able to complete its customs automation process and procured technology and video conferencing equipment to replace the damaged and stolen NCTI equipment.  The training programs implemented at NCTI have led to improvements in Egypt’s compliance with international trade agreements and standards for international customs procedures. The refurbishment of the NCTI facility will enable the Egyptian Customs Authority to continue its programs to improve the capacity of customs officers in Egypt and the MENA region.

The Institute was damaged during civil unrest in early 2011 and its training facilities, computer labs, and video conferencing center were looted.  As a result, the NCTI could no longer conduct its training program for customs officers throughout the MENA region.