WhatsApp quoteThe Federal Tax Authority's EmaraTax portal makes Import / Export Code a digital process, but the questions it asks are precise and the supporting documents must match your licence exactly. Import / Export Code is a customs client code that lets your company clear goods through UAE ports and airports, and it applies to any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone. Foodstuff Trading in Import / Export Code means importing, distributing and re-exporting packaged food, beverages and agricultural products, and it is licensed as a commercial activity. Typical examples of this activity include rice and grains, frozen food, beverages and organic products, which can as a rule sit together on one Import / Export Code licence.
Why Import / Export Code
To be clear, the steps for Import / Export Code are: apply on the Dubai Trade or relevant customs portal, upload licence and authorised signatory documents, pay the registration fee and then link the code to your freight forwarder. Keeping records for five years, issuing compliant invoices and filing on time are the ongoing obligations that follow Import / Export Code. GoldenKey has licensed foodstuff trading in Import / Export Code for clients ranging from solo business owners to groups opening a regional branch, so we know which sub-activities to list.
How Import / Export Code works with GoldenKey
Step 1Assessment
We confirm whether Import / Export Code is mandatory, voluntary or not yet required for your business, and set the right timing.
Step 2EmaraTax setup
Just as important, we set up EmaraTax access and attach your licence, authorised signatory and IBAN. This is also the point at which we answer any question specific to import / export code for a foodstuff trading company.
Step 3Application
GoldenKey fills the FTA application for Import / Export Code and uploads the licence, IDs and turnover evidence.
Step 4Certificate and compliance calendar
As we tell every client, once the FTA approves, we diarise your return and payment deadlines so nothing is missed. For import / export code for a foodstuff trading company, GoldenKey completes this stage with you on WhatsApp or by email.
Documents required
Importantly, for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company the authority asks for the following paperwork, and we tell you exactly how each must be formatted.
- Turnover evidence such as invoices, contracts or financial statements
- Customs code and import records where applicable
- Bank account letter or IBAN certificate
- Memorandum of association showing shareholders
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Passport and Emirates ID of the authorised signatory
Pricing
The figures below for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company are updated by GoldenKey whenever the authority changes its fees, so the price you see is the current one. As a rule, pricing for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company depends on the package you choose; every option below includes GoldenKey's service and the government fees stated.
| GoldenKey service fee | AED 2,000 |
|---|
Dubai Customs or respective emirate customs code for trade activity
Request this servicePrices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-06.
Why the UAE
As a rule, there are no restrictions on repatriating profits or capital, so earnings from import / export code for a foodstuff trading company can be moved to your home country or reinvested freely. Just as important, the UAE's reputation as a trading hub means international clients and suppliers already trust a UAE licence, which shortens sales cycles for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company.
Why GoldenKey
In practice, most of our Import / Export Code customers come to us through referrals from other founders, which is why we take pride in keeping every promise we put in writing. GoldenKey's consultants have handled import / export code for a foodstuff trading company for traders, consultants, tech business owners and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves fast. Importantly, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company happen the same day they are ready.
From day one, book a call with GoldenKey and we will confirm your eligibility, your costs and your next steps for import / export code for a foodstuff trading company in a single conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Does Import / Export Code apply to a new company with no revenue yet?
Put simply, the customs code is needed before the first shipment, so new traders apply as soon as the licence is granted.
What happens if I miss the Import / Export Code deadline?
Late registration attracts a fixed penalty, and late filings add further penalties. If you are already late, GoldenKey can register you and advise on penalty reconsideration where grounds exist.
How long does Import / Export Code take with the FTA?
The FTA typically responds within 20 business days, and simple applications are often approved faster. GoldenKey submits a complete file to avoid information requests.
Is foodstuff trading allowed in Import / Export Code?
Import / Export Code applies to a foodstuff trading company businesses on the same basis as any other UAE company: any company that physically imports or exports goods, whether mainland or free zone.
Which licence type covers foodstuff trading?
In our experience, foodstuff Trading is classified as a commercial activity, and GoldenKey selects the exact activity code so your licence matches what you actually do.
