As of today, 1 June 2026, the global transition to the e-ATA Carnet begins—a fully electronic system for export documentation, for which the Economic Chamber holds public authority and issues these documents in the interest of companies.

At a time when digitalization is becoming a prerequisite for more efficient administrative processes and a more competitive economy, the modernization of instruments that facilitate international trade represents a natural and necessary step. The ATA Carnet, often referred to as a “passport for goods,” is an internationally recognized customs document that enables the temporary export and import of goods without the payment of customs duties and other import charges in more than 80 countries and customs territories. The document is used for participation in international trade fairs, exhibitions, business events, the movement of professional equipment, and other forms of temporary cross-border movement of goods.

As the National Guaranteeing Association and issuing authority for ATA Carnets, the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia has issued a total of 1,470 parallel paper and digital ATA Carnets since the introduction of the new digital system in April 2023.

On 1 June 2026, the official global transition to the modernized digital e-ATA Carnet system begins, in line with the international timetable established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Customs Organization (WCO).

The transition of the ATA Carnet into digital form represents a significant step toward modernization and more efficient trade facilitation. The new e-ATA Carnet application will enable the temporary import and export of goods with the same functionality as the paper carnet, without the need to carry physical documents. Through QR codes and digital customs declarations, the system will contribute to faster, safer, and simpler cross-border movement of goods.

Ahead of the launch of this new phase announced by the International Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, following the example of other countries, is prepared to begin the process of introducing the e-ATA system. The necessary technical framework has already been established, and the Chamber is actively monitoring all implementation activities and guidelines to ensure timely support for the business community and full compliance with international standards.

It is important to emphasize that, for North Macedonia, this does not mean the immediate discontinuation of the paper ATA Carnet. During the transitional period, which under the international roadmap will last until the end of 2027, with full transition scheduled for 1 January 2028, both the paper-based and digital models will coexist. This means that companies will continue to use the existing procedures without disruption while the new digital processes are gradually introduced.

For companies, this provides an opportunity to become familiar with and prepare for a gradual shift toward faster and more efficient procedures, improved document traceability, reduced administrative burden, and alignment with future global trade standards. At the same time, the transition period ensures operational continuity and certainty, without interrupting existing business processes.