GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Gulf Cooperation Council

When goods move into or within the Gulf region, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) defines the applicable customs and trade framework.

Quick Answer

Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 22 November 2025

Source: https://www.gcc-sg.org

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

When goods move into or within the Gulf region, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) defines the applicable customs and trade framework. Founded in 1981 by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, the GCC pursues regional economic integration and administers a Common External Tariff (CET) applied uniformly by all six member states on imports from non-member countries. Goods of GCC origin circulate duty-free within the zone. For freight forwarders and customs brokers, this creates a clear operational distinction: intra-GCC movements and third-country imports follow different documentation requirements and duty structures. Companies supplying customers across multiple Gulf states benefit from the harmonised external tariff, but must ensure accurate origin determination to claim the correct treatment.

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