KARACHI: A major crisis is unfolding in Pakistan’s customs sector as the controversial Faceless Customs Assessment system threatens to bring operations to a halt from February 22. Customs agents nationwide have announced plans to go on strike, demanding an urgent resolution to the suspension of 45 customs agents’ licenses.
The All Pakistan Customs Agents Association (APCAA) and Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA) met to express their strong resentment over the new system, which has resulted in a replacement of the group-wise clearing system with a time-consuming one-by-one processing method in a single assessment hall. This has overwhelmed the customs officers, who now work 12-hour shifts seven days a week.
An anonymous customs officer shared, “The new system was meant to reduce contact between clearing agents and importers. But its forced implementation has ignored the well-being of officers.”
While the system was designed to improve customs processes, it has caused numerous issues. Many Goods Declarations (GDs) have been blocked, creating delays and a backlog. The newly appointed team, led by Yaqoob Mako, has stopped several GDs for inspection, further slowing down operations.
Both customs agents and officers are frustrated with the working conditions. Officers argue that 12-hour workdays, seven days a week, are extreme, especially when many other countries are adopting shorter workweeks to prioritize employee health.
An official stated, “Our officers are likely to strike. They have no contact with the outside world, not even with their families. This system seems designed to benefit a few individuals, rather than the country’s interests.”
The case of suspension of the license of 45 customs agents has been formally lodged by the APCAA with the FPCCI. According to warnings issued by the FPCCI, this might send shockwaves throughout the entire process of clearance because it would greatly trouble businesses and individuals.
The timing is particularly worrisome because the holy month of Ramadan approaches, which would exacerbate delays and supply chain issues. However, the FPCCI concurs that customs processes must be efficient but emphasizes these changes must be fair and very well evaluated in order not to harm businesses.
The FPCCI has urged the FBR to intervene immediately and suspend the 45 license suspensions until an independent investigation can be conducted. It believes that such an inquiry will help restore trust in the Faceless Customs System and prevent further economic damage.
“As the leading business organization in Pakistan, the FPCCI is committed to working with the FBR to resolve this issue,” said a spokesperson for the FPCCI. “We hope for a quick and practical solution to avoid more disruptions and protect the country’s economy.”
The business community is now waiting for the FBR’s response, hoping for a resolution that will restore stability to the customs process and prevent further disruptions to the nation’s trade operations.
