Customs Agents Support Faceless Clearance System in Karachi
KARACHI: Pakistan’s leading customs agents have strongly welcomed the Faceless Clearance System introduced at Karachi Customs, describing it as a big step toward transparency and smooth trade operations. They said the system supports Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s reform vision and will help remove unfair practices in customs clearance.
In a joint statement, Arshad Khurshid, Chairman of the All Pakistan Customs Agents Association (APCAA), and Muhammad Aamir, President of the Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA), praised the system’s first-in-first-out (FIFO) approach. They also appreciated Chief Collector of Customs (Appraisement-South), Wajid Ali, for quickly engaging with stakeholders and solving operational problems.
“The faceless system is a game-changer for Pakistan’s trade,” said Khurshid. “It ensures fairness, speed, and transparency, while Mr. Wajid Ali’s leadership is helping it succeed faster.”
Earlier this week, Wajid Ali met with stakeholders to discuss issues faced in the early stages of the system. After listening to concerns, he announced several important reforms to make the process smoother:
Assistant Collectors will act as focal persons in each Collectorate to handle assessment and examination delays.
Second reviews will not be rejected without a proper hearing.
The faceless assessment process will be further strengthened to support merit-based decisions.
A dedicated facilitation center is being considered at Custom House to resolve non-assessment issues.
Steps will be taken to address officer shortages and improve review quality to reduce reassessments.
Muhammad Aamir said these actions show a balanced enforcement policy that helps trade while keeping regulations strong.
“We appreciate Mr. Wajid Ali’s proactive approach,” Aamir added. “His focus on clarity and stakeholder inclusion is exactly what is needed.”
The Faceless Assessment System, which reduces human interaction and promotes digital processes, is part of a wider modernization plan at Pakistan Customs. Experts believe its success could inspire other regulatory bodies to adopt similar reforms.
Both APCAA and KCAA confirmed their full support to customs authorities for the smooth and long-term success of these reforms.
