Electronic Government and Customs Clearance:

" Electronic Data Interchange" EDI .

With the proliferation of computers, and the use of Tele-transmission techniques, it has become possible to rationalize the processing, and transmission of information. This is normally called "Electronic Data Interchange", or simply EDI.
EDI is generally defined as: "the computer-to-computer transfer of commercial, and administrative transactions using an agreed standard to structure the data pertaining to that transaction".

In a more simplified wordings, we can, also, define EDI as: "Electronic Data Interchange" that transfers the structured data by agreed message standards from computer to computer, and by electronic means.
With a structured message, such as a purchase order, the data is formatted according to an agreed standard, thus facilitating the electronic transfer from one computer system to another. It is, also, referred to as application-to-application communications between computer systems, the intent is to have a "hands-off" operation that allows for the exchange of business data between trading partners.

The most commonly quoted advantage of EDI is:

EDI facilitates, and speeds up border controls, and other official interventions, such as Customs clearance of goods, at the same time, computer-oriented controls improve the efficiency of the controlling authorities; and As a whole, EDI is a new way of doing business, and improving customer service. EDI is becoming an indispensable feature in production, and trade, whether domestic or international.

Finally, EDI helps in exchanging the information, messages between Customs, and Trading Community quickly and accurately. In addition, it minimizes the delay in submitting the Customs Declaration, and minimizes time-consuming contact between the Trader, and Customs.

G.T.S flexible system can process almost any type of EDI message, and provide EDI clearance services for your cargoes through the computer link-up with Airports Terminals, and the Lebanese Customs. G.T.S currently trades information with exporters, importers, carriers, and governments. Prior to shipment, whether by Sea, Air, or Overland, you can be sure that your merchandise is sent as per established operating procedures. We handle everything from vendor management, labeling, packing, and consolidation, up to preparing, and issuing the necessary paperwork.

For more information on Customs, and Tariffs Statistics in Lebanon, please log in to Lebanese Customs Administration homepage at: www.customs.gov.lb