Karachi: Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, the Acting President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), announced significant commitments by Mr. Mohsin Rafiq, the Chief Collector of Customs Appraisement (South), to address the business community's concerns and expedite the digitalization of customs procedures. These measures are aimed at improving the ease of doing business and reducing unnecessary delays in customs clearance processes.

According to Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Rafiq has acknowledged the principled stand of FPCCI to enhance operational benchmarks and agreed that the advancement of digital solutions is essential to minimize human interaction in customs operations. This priority shift is expected to streamline processes and reduce the potential for delays and errors that currently plague the system.

Further discussions led by Mr. Asif Sakhi, Vice President of FPCCI, emphasized the importance of accurate, fair, and timely application of taxes and duties, which are crucial for the cost and availability of raw materials in production and industrial processes. Delays at customs not only increase costs through demurrages and detention charges but also hinder the overall efficiency of trade and industry sectors.

FPCCI Vice Presidents, including Mr. Aman Paracha and Mr. Shabbir Mansha, highlighted several specific issues, such as the operational inefficiencies of WeBOC, the online customs clearance system intended to operate 24/7 but hampered by staff shortages. They also addressed the lack of updated regulations concerning wharfage or storage fees, which continue to impose significant financial burdens on importers due to delays.

Mr. Khurram Ijaz, advisor to the FPCCI President on FBR affairs, called for a more rational approach towards the licensing and regulation of clearing agents, suggesting that these agents should not face undue punitive measures for minor infractions and should be considered more strategically within the customs process.

Mr. Rafiq responded by committing to address these grievances, focusing on implementing a world-class Management Information System (MIS) and resolving human resource shortages to boost efficiency and facilitation at customs appraisements.