Long queues of trucks, delays in cargo collection and disruption across the supply chain have been reported at Limassol port since Friday due to a technical fault affecting the Automated Import System (AIS) used for customs clearances.
The problem has impacted hundreds of imports, preventing the completion of customs and tax payments required for the release of goods.
Industry sources and customs agents say the first issues emerged around midday on Friday before worsening over the following days. According to those affected, the system crashes during the payment stage, leaving declarations pending and preventing customs clearance from being completed.
Although efforts were made to resolve the problem, including the presence of a technician at the port, the fault reportedly reappeared shortly afterwards, bringing processing to a halt once again.
The disruption is having a significant impact on the supply chain, with hundreds of containers arriving daily but unable to be released.
Importers, transport operators and customs brokers are facing mounting delays, while concerns are growing over the additional costs businesses may incur if the issue is not resolved quickly.
Particular concern has been expressed about perishable and temperature-sensitive goods, which risk deterioration amid current weather conditions.
Customs Department confirms software issue
Customs Department spokesperson George Constantinou confirmed that the issue stems from software managing customs payment processing rather than any failure of the department's computer hardware or equipment.
He said the first signs of the malfunction appeared on Friday afternoon when payment transactions began failing, with the problem subsequently spreading to the wider import-processing system.
According to Constantinou, the Customs Department is working with the Department of Information Technology Services and the company responsible for operating the system in an effort to restore normal service as quickly as possible.
He also urged affected businesses and members of the public to remain patient, assuring them that continuous efforts are being made to fully resolve the issue.
Temporary procedures introduced
Until the system is fully restored, the Customs Department has activated contingency measures to allow cargo releases to continue.
Under the temporary arrangements:
- Payments can be made in cash or by cheque through the GL18 procedure.
- Payments by bank transfer or credit card will require confirmation from the Customs Department's accounting office before goods can be released.
- Companies using deferred-payment arrangements have been asked to contact Customs Headquarters directly for guidance until the technical issue is resolved.
Authorities say the alternative procedures are intended to minimise disruption and keep goods moving while work continues on restoring the AIS system.
