Economy|US-Israel war on IranQatar can keep goods flowing amid tensions, customs chief saysQatar has no reason to worry about goods shortages or disruptions to supply chains despite heightened regional tensions, the country’s customs chief tells Al Jazeera.

Qatar's supply chains remain stable and unaffected by regional tensions, according to Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Jamal, Chairman of Qatar’s General Authority of Customs. The country maintains stability through diversified import sources, efficient logistics infrastructure, and strategic reserves of essential goods.

The Al Nadeeb platform, Qatar’s electronic customs clearance and single-window system, plays a critical role in maintaining efficient trade operations. This digital system connects various entities involved in import and export, enabling online submission of documents, customs transactions, and fee payments. Recent updates have improved procedure speeds and transparency.

Qatar Customs has increased collaboration with government agencies to facilitate food supply entry, and priority shipments benefit from fast-track lanes. Customs points operate around the clock to prevent bottlenecks.

Regional Coordination and Trade Facilitation

Coordination with the Gulf Customs Union Authority continues, following recent agreements to ease trade among GCC countries. Measures include recognizing freight forwarders’ guarantees, accepting customs clearance undertakings, and using simplified codes for smoother goods movement. Special arrangements facilitate the movement of empty consignments to reduce delays.

Qatar's logistics system ensures trade continuity using sea, air, and land routes. Hamad Port serves as a key maritime hub with operational efficiency and global shipping line connections. Hamad International Airport offers advanced cargo handling capabilities. The Abu Samra border crossing with Saudi Arabia is a vital land transport route, featuring expanded infrastructure and advanced customs systems to enhance capacity and flexibility.

The Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system supports efficient road freight across borders with unified customs documents, reducing inspection needs. Qatar joined the TIR Convention in January 2019, integrating the electronic TIR system (E-TIR) with Al Nadeeb in May 2025. This allows for electronic completion of import, export, and transit procedures, data exchange, risk analysis, and expedited shipment processing.

Risk Management and Emergency Preparedness

Qatar Customs operates under an integrated risk management framework, featuring regularly updated contingency plans. Measures include increasing operational readiness, staffing through 24-hour shifts, and providing alternative shipping routes. The customs authority collaborates with other state institutions and private-sector actors to enhance coordination and integrate emergency planning.

Real-time information exchange with relevant ministries and agencies ensures closer monitoring of supply conditions and quicker responses to disruptions. Qatar's trade and logistics system remains adaptable to changing conditions, with proactive measures in place to ensure the continuous flow of goods and market stability.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.