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Tuesday February 11, 2025

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PM Shehbaz says he is delighted to note that Pakistan Customs recently implemented Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) System

By News Desk
January 26, 2025
Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif.— PPI/File
Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif.— PPI/File

Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
Prime Minister Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan joins the global community in celebrating the International Customs Day. We reaffirm Pakistan's steadfast commitment to fostering collaboration with our international trade partners. I appreciate the members of the World Customs Organization (WCO) for their unwavering dedication and commitment to the global trade community.

This year's theme, "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity," resonates aptly with Pakistan's own vision of ensuring the efficient delivery of services while maintaining a vigilant approach to provide a secure trading environment. We stand committed to advancing prosperity and progress through robust trade facilitation and strengthened border security. Our premier institution, the Pakistan Customs, remains dedicated to embracing the WCO's call for seamless trade processes, enhanced border protection, and adaptability within the global supply chain.

I am delighted to note that on my direction, Pakistan Customs has recently implemented the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) System, which is aimed at reducing clearance time and inducing efficiency and transparency in Customs assessments. I am confident that this system will not only streamline the clearance process but also enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of Pakistan's Customs operations, contributing to a more secure and transparent trade environment. Pakistan's economic landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. Our focus on addressing critical issues such as increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio, combating the menace of smuggling and illicit trade and above all, expanding the tax base will be pivotal in putting Pakistan on the path of sustainable economic growth. Moreover, maintaining heightened security measures at our borders and other sensitive locations will safeguard our national interests and ensure a secure environment for international trade.

As we commemorate International Customs Day2025, I extend my deepest appreciation to Pakistan Customs for their continued efforts towards achieving the objectives we have set for ourselves in our economic reform agenda. To the global community, I affirm that Pakistanis are fully committed to playing a pivotal role in ensuring the security of global trade and the country is well positioned to navigate the evolving trade landscape toward progress and prosperity.

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb
Minister for Finance & Revenue

On the occasion of International Customs Day, celebrated annually on January 26, under the auspices of the World Customs Organization (WCO), I extend my warm greetings to the global customs community. This year's theme, "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity," reflects the critical role that customs authorities play in facilitating global trade while ensuring the security of borders and national interests.

Pakistan is fully aligned and remains deeply committed to creating an efficient trade environment that not only facilitates commerce but also enhances security measures to protect national interests. This commitment requires a forward-thinking approach, balancing trade facilitation with the enforcement of laws and regulations in a manner that supports both economic growth and national security.

In today's rapidly evolving global trade environment, it is essential to strike a judicious balance between efficiency and security in order to foster strong and lasting relationships with all stakeholders. The current government has placed the transformation of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) at the heart of its economic stabilisation and revival efforts. As part of this, a comprehensive plan to improve Customs systems and procedures is being actively implemented. This transformation will contribute significantly to the economic development of Pakistan and is expected to drive the nation toward greater prosperity.

Looking forward, Pakistan Customs must continue to evolve and innovate in response to the changing dynamics of global trade. I am confident that Pakistan Customs, with its dedicated professionals and forward-looking approach, will not only meet these challenges but will also continue to be a source of national pride.

Rashid Mahmood Langrial
Chairman Federal Board Revenue

On the occasion of International Customs Day 2025, Pakistan proudly stands at the crossroads of a digital transformation, embracing the World Customs Organization's theme: "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity." Through FBR's Transformation Plan and guided by a vision of reform, the true spirit of this year's theme is being achieved to breathe new life into customs operations. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices, Pakistan Customs is creating a robust framework that ensures seamless trade flows, fortified border security, and fertile grounds for economic prosperity.

Through digital initiatives and streamlining procedures, Pakistan Customs is dedicated to reducing trade barriers, accelerating the movement of goods, and creating a business environment that is efficient, competitive, and secure. A prime example of this digitisation is the Faceless Assessment initiative which has been launched at one of Karachi's busiest ports and has put an end to unnecessary paperwork, hidden costs and arbitrary delays. Coupled with other initiatives, including a Cargo Tracking System and Digital Enforcement Stations, FBR's Transformation Plan demonstrates Pakistan's commitment to World Customs Organization's guidelines, enhancing its standing in the international community and bringing its customs operations at par with other advanced customs administrations around the world. As we celebrate International Customs Day 2025, I would like to commend all those men and women of Pakistan Customs who have performed their duties with exemplary dedication, integrity and professionalism, without succumbing to the temptations around their work. Their perseverance and commitment ensure that Pakistan's economy is well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities in global trade while safeguarding the security and prosperity of our nation. Together, we will build a future where Pakistan is not only a vital player in the global trade network but also as a shining example of how innovation and digitilisation can drive national and international prosperity.

Muhammad Junaid Jalil Khan
Member (Customs-Operations) Federal Board of Revenue

Pakistan is commemorating International Customs Day 2025 as part of the global Customs community. World Customs Organization (WCO) has set the theme "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security and Prosperity" for the year 2025. This year's theme underscores the indispensable role played by Customs administrations in today's interconnected world. It serves as a roadmap for Customs authorities and calls for a proactive approach to ensure global trade security in order to safeguard international and national interests.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the global Customs community needs to adeptly navigate the intricate balance between efficiency and security to ensure progress and prosperity. Our commitment to excellence demands that we provide efficient service delivery to all stakeholders while at the same time implementing stringent security measures to ensure trade transparency and national security.

Customs administrations worldwide are facing multifaceted challenges, ranging from relentless pace of digital transformation, emerging cross-border threats and complexities in geopolitical arena. In this backdrop, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Transformation Plan is a prime example of how technologies like electronic data exchange and risk management systems can be applied for the provision of an efficient and secure trade environment. Through automated clearance systems, we're streamlining Customs processes to help businesses thrive and to make trade easier for everyone.

Today is a special day to recognise the essential role played by Customs administrations in helping to keep our borders safe. I extend my gratitude to the global Customs fraternity for their support and reaffirm that Pakistan Customs will continue to deliver on its commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity.

Basit Maqsood Abbasi
Chief Collector of Customs, Enforcement Islamabad

As we observe International Customs Day on January 26, 2025, we take pride in reflecting on the vital role of customs administrations worldwide. This year's theme, "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity," set by the World Customs Organization (WCO), highlights the essential contributions of customs authorities to global trade, national security, and economic advancement.

Customs administrations are central to the smooth movement of goods across borders while maintaining security and promoting economic stability. Our responsibilities are diverse, ranging from facilitating trade and enforcing regulations to generating revenue and promoting legitimate business activity. These efforts collectively underpin national development and international cooperation.

A key priority for customs is efficiency. In today's dynamic global economy, streamlining processes is vital to ensure smooth trade operations. By embracing modern technologies like artificial intelligence, block chain, and automated systems, we are transforming customs procedures. These advancements reduce processing times, enhance transparency, and create a predictable trading environment, enabling businesses of all sizes to flourish.

Security remains fundamental to our mission. Customs plays a pivotal role in protecting nations from transnational threats such as smuggling, illicit trade, and organised crime. By leveraging intelligence-driven risk management systems, inter-agency collaboration, and strengthening international partnerships, we strive to safeguard borders, protect communities, and uphold the rule of law.

Ultimately, all these efforts contribute to economic prosperity. Customs is not only a regulatory authority but also an engine for growth, promoting legitimate trade and ensuring the fair collection of revenue. Through our efforts, we stimulate industrial growth, attract investment, and enhance regional connectivity, paving the way for sustainable development and national progress.

On this International Customs Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated customs officers and staff who uphold these values daily. Your unwavering commitment and professionalism are the foundation of our success. I also thank our stakeholders-businesses, trade associations, and partner organisations-for their cooperation and trust, which are critical to achieving our shared objectives.

Let us take this opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to innovation, collaboration, and service excellence. Together, we can continue to build a resilient, efficient, and secure customs system that not only supports national priorities but also contributes to global harmony and prosperity.

Moin-ud-deen Ahmed Wani
Collector of Customs Enforcement Karachi

As we mark International Customs Day on January 26, 2025, it is time to reflect on the critical role Customs plays in global trade and national development. This year's theme, "Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity," highlights Customs' responsibility to ensuring smooth trade operations while safeguarding the nation's interests and promoting economic progress.

Customs is the backbone of international trade, facilitating legitimate business while protecting societies from unlawful activities. Our mission is multifaceted: we support the growth of trade and ensure fair revenue collection while simultaneously safeguarding our borders. These sometimes conflicting responsibilities require continuous innovation, collaboration and dedication to excellence.

Streamlining trade operations is one of our key goals. By embracing advanced technologies and refining Customs processes, we aim to simplify Customs procedures, reduce clearance times, and create a conducive environment for both local and international businesses. Enhancing efficiency benefits trade and consequently strengthens the economy.

Another cornerstone of our role is security. Customs serves as the first line of defence against threats posed by smuggling, illicit trade, and other unlawful activities. Through the use of data-driven strategies, intelligence systems, and inter-agency cooperation, we ensure the safety of our borders and protect our communities from harm.

At the heart of all these efforts is our commitment to boosting economic prosperity. By enabling the smooth flow of goods, promoting legal trade practices, and supporting industry, we contribute significantly to the nation's development. Customs also plays an important role in connecting local markets to global supply chains, driving growth and innovation.

On this special day, I wish to acknowledge the tireless efforts of Pakistan Customs officers and staff, whose dedication and professionalism are instrumental in achieving these goals.

As we move forward, let us renew our commitment to serving with integrity, embracing innovation, and working together to build a secure and prosperous future for all. With a collective effort, Customs can continue to be a cornerstone of economic resilience and national progress.

Wishing you all a meaningful Customs day!