Customs brokers at Limassol port will begin an open-ended strike from tonight, escalating their action against the new automated import system that has just gone live. They argue the platform suffers from serious functional and technical shortcomings that are already disrupting day-to-day operations.
What happened today
Earlier in the day, brokers staged a 24-hour work stoppage to press for a postponement of the rollout. During a General Assembly of the Pancyprian Association of Customs Brokers, members were informed that the Customs Department’s management would not grant any extension, prompting the decision to move to an indefinite strike.
According to the brokers, the system is missing key data fields -such as the consignee’s name on containers- creating confusion and delays across clearance procedures. They say these gaps prevent the smooth processing of entries and impede the wider flow of trade.
Customs Department stance
Brokers say they were officially notified that Customs will not defer the implementation timetable, despite repeated requests from the sector.
Representatives stress they do not oppose modernization or digitization. Their demand is for targeted fixes and adjustments before full deployment, to avoid cascading problems in the supply chain and unnecessary burdens on businesses.