MCCAA's ImportaMT cuts pre-shipment compliance hurdles for Maltese importers
MCCAA launches ImportaMT, a pre-import service that verifies product compliance before shipment, reducing delays and costs.
ImportaMT, a new pre-import documentary verification service from the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, went live this week. The online tool lets importers have their compliance documentation checked before goods are shipped to Malta.
The service was launched at the Malta Freeport by Consumer Protection Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti and MCCAA Chairperson Carmen Ciantar. It fulfils one of the government’s commitments for its first 100 days under the Int Malta initiative.
Through ImportaMT, an importer submits one application per product. The MCCAA reviews the documentation against a compliance matrix covering EU harmonisation legislation on product safety within the Authority’s remit.
A decision is issued within five working days from payment, or ten if clarification is needed. The answer is either VERIFIED or NOT VERIFIED. A verified decision is published at a unique online address and a receipt with a QR code is issued, which Customs can verify.
The MCCAA stresses that this is a documentary verification only. It does not certify products, does not exempt goods from market surveillance, and does not guarantee Customs release. It is designed to catch deficiencies before shipment, reducing the risk of delays and costs once goods have entered the supply chain.
Minister Azzopardi Tanti described the tool as an example of turning a commitment into a concrete service that makes a difference. “By giving importers the opportunity to identify issues before goods are shipped, we are reducing the risk of unnecessary delays and costs, while strengthening compliance and making more efficient use of our regulatory resources.”
Chairperson Ciantar called ImportaMT “an important step towards a more preventive, collaborative and efficient approach to regulation.” She added that identifying documentation issues early helps businesses plan more effectively while strengthening consumer protection.
The service carries a fee of €50 per product application, charged under the Authority’s existing statutory powers. Customs recognises the receipts, meaning products with a valid receipt will not need to be referred back to the MCCAA for the same documentary verification. However, products flagged by Customs through its own risk assessment will still be reviewed free of charge.
Importers, customs agents and freight forwarders can access more information at importa.mt.