The imposition of the mandatory ECTN is a blow to Somaliland, Puntland and Jubbaland administrations, who enjoyed longtime lone revenue collection from the ports without the federal government’s interference in their taxation system.

The enforcement of the Electronic Cargo Tracking Number (ECTN), which was officially launched in February 2023, gives the Somali government to fully control all the Somali ports across the country.

"Failure to comply shall result in severe legal consequences” The Official notice which was issued late September this year read, "Such measures may include, but not limited to, administrative fines, detention or seizure of cargo, suspension or revocation of port operating or agent licences, and criminal persecution where applicable – all enforced with applicable Somali laws and maritime regulations and maritime regulations.”

"All parties are therefore urged to ensure full compliance to avoid enforcement action.” The official notice added.

Analysists believe that if the system is fully implemented, the federal member states will be forced to work with the Federal government, crushing their defiance and reluctance to work with the government.