Lahore: Collector Customs (Appraisement) Umar Shafiq emphasized the importance of facilitating the business community while maintaining transparency within the customs system during a meeting at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). He stated that strict legal actions would be enforced in cases of misdeclaration and bad intent, while importers providing accurate declarations would receive expedited processing through the Green Channel.

According to Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the meeting commenced with a welcome from LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol to Collector Customs Umar Shafiq and his team. The gathering included prominent figures such as LCCI Vice President Khurram Lodhi and SAARC Chamber Vice President Mian Anjum Nisar, among others. The meeting also saw attendance from Deputy Collector Mehak Majid and Assistant Director Shehzad Khokhar.

In his address, LCCI President Saigol highlighted the positive impact of direct coordination between the LCCI and Pakistan Customs in resolving practical issues. He praised the successful implementation of the faceless assessment system, which has helped eliminate irregularities in valuation practices. However, he expressed concerns over the recent self-clearance decision, which he believes could adversely affect small and medium-sized enterprises lacking customs expertise.

Saigol also brought up issues such as sampling procedures, inconsistencies in HS codes across cities, and delays in the appraisal process. He called for a review of these matters to enhance facilitation for importers.

Responding to the concerns, Collector Customs Shafiq, a Lahore resident, stated his commitment to the city's progress. He explained that the self-clearance policy restricts clearing agents from using importers' user IDs for security reasons. Shafiq assured that examiners have been directed to expedite the examination process and provide written observations to avoid unnecessary delays.

He further clarified that importers have the right to inquire about sampling procedures and receive written receipts. Shafiq reaffirmed Pakistan Customs' commitment to supporting honest business practices, aiming to reduce examination and clearance times at the Lahore Dry Port significantly.