Dubai Customs Launches “Project Zero” to Promote Circular Economy and Sustainability

On October 14, 2025, Dubai Customs unveiled “Project Zero,” an innovative initiative aimed at transforming counterfeit goods into useful, reusable products. This pioneering project is a collaborative effort between Dubai Customs, DP World Foundation, and the Landmark Group, designed to advance circular economy principles while combating illegal trade.

Transforming Counterfeit Goods into Sustainable Resources

“Project Zero” represents the region’s first comprehensive approach that integrates intellectual property protection with waste reduction and social responsibility. Instead of destroying the confiscated counterfeit items, approximately 500,000 products will be sustainably recycled and repurposed to extend their lifecycle, achieving a “Zero Waste” goal. This process not only reduces landfill waste and carbon emissions but also provides valuable products to underprivileged communities.

A Model of Public-Private Sector Collaboration

• DP World Foundation: Vice Chairman Nasser Abdulla Al Neyadi highlighted the project as a landmark example of sustainable innovation, converting unusable goods into resources that benefit society and the environment.

• Dubai Customs: Executive Director Mansoor Al Malik emphasized that the initiative extends their mandate beyond traditional customs oversight, actively aligning with sustainability strategies focused on resource optimization, waste reduction, and combating counterfeit goods.

• Landmark Group: CFO Rajesh Garg detailed how the project will convert half a million confiscated clothing items into approximately 200,000 new sustainable products through advanced textile recycling and remanufacturing facilities.

Aligning with Dubai’s Sustainability Vision

Launched during GITEX Global 2025, Project Zero underscores Dubai’s commitment to environmental sustainability and social welfare by embedding circular economy principles into governmental operations. The initiative illustrates how customs authorities can play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact while supporting vulnerable populations.

Key Impact of Project Zero:

• Sustainable recycling of 500,000 counterfeit goods
• Creation of 200,000 new products for disadvantaged groups
• Significant reduction in waste sent to landfills
• Lowered carbon emissions through minimized disposal
• Strengthened collaboration across government and private sectors toward a sustainable economy

Dubai Customs’ Project Zero sets a new benchmark in the Middle East for responsible customs practices intertwined with environmental and social sustainability goals. This initiative invites other regions to explore circular economy pathways in addressing counterfeit trade challenges.

For more information on sustainability initiatives and circular economy projects, stay tuned to our blog.

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