News
Angola Marks the Operational Launch of ASY5, the 5th Generation of ASYCUDA Customs Management Software
On 5 January 2026, Angola marked a major milestone in customs digitalization with the operational launch of ASY5, becoming the first country worldwide to deploy the fifth generation of ASYCUDA Customs Management Software. The launch took place at the headquarters of the 4th Regional Tax Service in Lobito, underscoring Angola’s continued efforts to modernize its customs administration and strengthen trade facilitation. ASY5 is the functional customs software built on the ASYCUDA Cloud Framework (ACF), ASYCUDA’s New Generation technology, which is fully web-based and eliminates the need for commercial licences or proprietary middleware. ACF is developed by UNCTAD’s ASYCUDA Programme, enabling a more autonomous, scalable, and cost-efficient digital environment for customs administrations.
The event brought together representatives from customs and fiscal authorities, the Angolan Chamber of Official Customs Brokers (CDOA), the General Tax Administration (AGT), the private sector, and national media, alongside representatives of UNCTAD and its ASYCUDA Programme.
During the launch, it was emphasized that the operationalization of ASY5 reflects Angola’s sustained commitment to digital transformation in customs. The new system supports more streamlined procedures, enhanced transparency, and improved efficiency across customs operations, while reinforcing Angola’s integration into global trade networks.
Private sector representatives highlighted the importance of continuity and improvement in customs digitalization. They noted that ASY5 builds on the experience gained with previous ASYCUDA systems, including remote submission of declarations, while offering enhanced capabilities in the processing and management of trade information.
Angola at the Forefront of Customs Digital Transformation
The operational launch of ASY5 positions Angola at the forefront of technological innovation in customs administration. As the first country to deploy ASYCUDA New Generation technology in live operations, Angola is setting an important precedent for the future evolution of digital customs systems.
The new platform provides an integrated and reliable environment for customs brokers, traders, and other stakeholders involved in cross-border trade. By enabling more efficient data exchange and system interoperability, ASY5 supports faster clearance processes and more effective coordination among public and private sector actors.
A key highlight of the launch was a live, online demonstration of the system. During this session, a shipping agent submitted a cargo manifest for the first time using ASY5, followed by the submission of the first export customs declaration by an official customs broker. This marked the first real-time operational use of ASY5 globally and demonstrated the system’s readiness to support end-to-end customs processes.
A Global First
Angola’s pioneering role in the operational launch of ASY5 underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence in fiscal and customs management. The implementation of the new platform is expected to enhance data collection, inspection, cargo tracking, and information integration, contributing to more efficient and transparent trade operations.
As ASYCUDA New Generation technology continues to evolve, Angola’s experience will serve as a reference for other administrations seeking to advance customs digitalization and modern trade facilitation practices.
On 5 January 2026, Angola marked a major milestone in customs digitalization with the operational launch of ASY5, becoming the first country worldwide to deploy the fifth generation of ASYCUDA Customs Management Software. The launch took place at the headquarters of the 4th Regional Tax Service in Lobito, underscoring Angola’s continued efforts to modernize its customs administration and strengthen trade facilitation. ASY5 is the functional customs software built on the ASYCUDA Cloud Framework (ACF), ASYCUDA’s New Generation technology, which is fully web-based and eliminates the need for commercial licences or proprietary middleware. ACF is developed by UNCTAD’s ASYCUDA Programme, enabling a more autonomous, scalable, and cost-efficient digital environment for customs administrations.
The event brought together representatives from customs and fiscal authorities, the Angolan Chamber of Official Customs Brokers (CDOA), the General Tax Administration (AGT), the private sector, and national media, alongside representatives of UNCTAD and its ASYCUDA Programme.
During the launch, it was emphasized that the operationalization of ASY5 reflects Angola’s sustained commitment to digital transformation in customs. The new system supports more streamlined procedures, enhanced transparency, and improved efficiency across customs operations, while reinforcing Angola’s integration into global trade networks.
Private sector representatives highlighted the importance of continuity and improvement in customs digitalization. They noted that ASY5 builds on the experience gained with previous ASYCUDA systems, including remote submission of declarations, while offering enhanced capabilities in the processing and management of trade information.
Angola at the Forefront of Customs Digital Transformation
The operational launch of ASY5 positions Angola at the forefront of technological innovation in customs administration. As the first country to deploy ASYCUDA New Generation technology in live operations, Angola is setting an important precedent for the future evolution of digital customs systems.
The new platform provides an integrated and reliable environment for customs brokers, traders, and other stakeholders involved in cross-border trade. By enabling more efficient data exchange and system interoperability, ASY5 supports faster clearance processes and more effective coordination among public and private sector actors.
A key highlight of the launch was a live, online demonstration of the system. During this session, a shipping agent submitted a cargo manifest for the first time using ASY5, followed by the submission of the first export customs declaration by an official customs broker. This marked the first real-time operational use of ASY5 globally and demonstrated the system’s readiness to support end-to-end customs processes.
A Global First
Angola’s pioneering role in the operational launch of ASY5 underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence in fiscal and customs management. The implementation of the new platform is expected to enhance data collection, inspection, cargo tracking, and information integration, contributing to more efficient and transparent trade operations.
As ASYCUDA New Generation technology continues to evolve, Angola’s experience will serve as a reference for other administrations seeking to advance customs digitalization and modern trade facilitation practices.