Internationally, all cargo operations are carried out on a 24-hour basis, and consignment clearance and duties and taxes are paid online. Still, consignments are not cleared online in Pakistan, which delays the release of consignments. Internationally, consignments should be removed within 48 hours. Muhammad Arshad Jamal expressed these views, Leader of All Pakistan Customs Agents Association, in a joint meeting with MCC Preventive Air Freight Unit, Karachi traders.
He said that on the one hand, the government was advocating the concept of single window operation and clearance was also introducing a clearance system called “In The Sky”. On the other hand, traders had to pay heavy taxes for the discharge of their valuables. Business costs are skyrocketing, and the service sector blames each other, but government officials are silent and indifferent to trade facilitation. Mohammad Arshad Jamal said that some critical issues need to be resolved urgently, and instructions need to be given to the concerned authorities. But consignment exams have been delayed for a long time due to a lack of staff, which has led to a lack of facilities at the air freight unit.
He said that consignment delivery should be made possible by 10 pm, and consignment clearance should be done in minimum time to reduce business costs. In addition, four examination officers should be posted in Jerry Danata to check the consignment.
On this occasion, Qamar-ul-Islam, Vice Chairman, All Pakistan Customs Agents Association, highlighted the delays in payment of terminal charges. He said that they have only one counter at the terminal for the collection of documents and issuance of payment vouchers, while at least four counters should be required so that traders’ time is not wasted. Listening to Asia’s point of view and saying that your observations are very accurate and Customs is also reviewing trade facilities in a safe business environment, he said that clearance in the Sky system and PSW are big projects that facilitate trade. The consignment clearance process will take place. In a detailed discussion, he directed the terminal operators to improve the quality of services provided to the traders and increase the delivery time of consignment till 10 pm.
Shehzad Ali said that we are working under the direction of customs officials. He said that the customs staff would be available till the last parcel is delivered to you. He assured us that we are here for your convenience and You can visit us at any time for any issue. Trade facilitation is our priority. He said that we are ready to work 24 hours a day if the customs staff is present on the spot and permits us, and assures us that they are increasing the counters. At the end of the meeting, APCA Senior Vice Chairman Muhammad Arshad Jamal expressed his gratitude to Additional Collector Dr Amir Nawaz.