- Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif launched the Faceless Customs Assessment System at Karachi Port on January 8, 2025
- The system is part of the Federal Board of Revenue’s modernization efforts to streamline customs clearance procedures
- It aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and integrity in the customs clearance process
- Customs clearance times have been reduced significantly, with goods potentially cleared in 15 to 20 minutes and a maximum of 19 hours
- The system prevents direct interaction between importers and customs officers, ensuring anonymity and reducing corruption opportunities
- Social media applications are banned on customs computers to keep officers focused on their tasks
- Dedicated and honest officers are selected to manage the new digital procedures
- Amenities provided for officers include food, prayer facilities, and washrooms to ensure their comfort and productivity
- Mobile phone usage is prohibited within the operational area to maintain discipline
- Since its implementation, the system has decreased complaints by 80% and played a crucial role in combating corruption in customs operations
- The initiative marks a significant improvement in the business environment and governance in Pakistan
Source: pkrevenue.com
Note that this post was (partially) written with the help of AI. It is always useful to review the original source material, and where needed to obtain (local) advice from a specialist.
