KARACHI:
Customs officials are pushing back against allegations of money laundering and under-invoicing in the post-clearance audit of luxury vehicle imports, with Chief Collector of Customs Jamil Nasir saying these claims are currently unfounded.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday with Collector East Tayyaba Kayani and Collector West Shafiq, Nasir clarified that luxury cars are being cleared according to the established procedure that existed before the implementation of the new faceless assessment system.
Nasir explained that a post-clearance audit report on the matter has not yet been received. He stated that any analysis of the situation will only be provided after the report is in hand.
The chief collector acknowledged that the post-clearance audit process is currently weak and is hampered by a shortage of personnel, emphasising the need to strengthen it.
Further clarifying the regulations around car imports, Nasir noted that the Import Policy Order 2022 prohibits the import of old and used cars on a commercial basis. The only exception is for overseas Pakistanis, who are permitted to import vehicles under specific schemes, such as the personal, baggage, and gift schemes.
These imports are still subject to the payment of all applicable duties and taxes, which must be paid from the importer’s bank account. He said the goal of the reforms is to enhance stakeholder facilitation.
Nasir detailed that the Central Appraising Unit is now operational in two shifts, running from 8 am to 12 am. These reforms have already led to faster cargo clearance at ports, with the faceless assessment system now clearing between 1,500 and 2,000 Goods Declarations (GDs) daily.
The Central Examination Unit has also started functioning, with efforts to minimise delays. A virtual hearing system has been introduced to save time, allowing people to participate without having to appear in person.
According to the Chief Collector, these reforms are now moving towards a phase of stability, and lab sample reports are also being provided within one day.
