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Karachi, Sat December 24, 2016

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ustoms North Region collected Rs 685.83 million from December 1 to 19 durig the current Uiscal under the head of sales tax (ST) against the assigned target of Rs 541.68 million. The total assigned revenue collection target for the month of December is Rs 1,227.50 million. The North region comprises Customs Collectorate Islamabad, Gilgit Baltistan, Samberial and Peshawar.

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According to details, during the said period, the MCC Islamabad collected Rs 317.76 million under head of sales tax against the assigned revenue collection target of Rs 105.24 million.

The Collectorate was assigned a target of Rs 423 million for December under head of sales tax. The sources said that during said period, the MCC Peshawar collected Rs 252.56 million under head of sales tax against the assigned revenue collection target of Rs 459.44 million. Sources said that Collectorate was assigned Rs 712 million revenue collection target under head of sales tax for month of December FY2016-17.

DG Valuation issues Order-in-Revision No 273/2016 against VR No 931/2016

Hyderabad ASO seizes huge quantity of smuggle goods, vehicle during action

KE management told to improve supply, cut tariff

Customs seizes smuggled goods worth Rs60.02 million in 12 days

Peshawar Dry Port collects Rs2602.43m from July to November of FY2016-17

DG CustomsValuation SyedTanveer has issued Order-in-Revision No. 273/2016 | SEE pAgE 02 |

ASO team has seized foreign origin 1210 packet of Indian Gutka value at Rs 6,05.000 | SEE pAgE 03 |

Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah has asked the new management of K-Electric to upgrade | SEE pAgE 04 |

DGCustomsIntelligenceFBRhasseizedand impound miscellaneousgoodsincluding | SEE pAgE 13 |

PeshawarDryPortcollectedRs.2602.43m underheadofalldutyandtaxesonimports | SEE pAgE 16 |

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FBR’s intelligence wing unearths illegal cigarette factory in Buner Saturday, December 24, 2016

National

PESHAWAR: The Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) intelligence wing has unearthed an unregistered cigarette manufacturing factory Khyber Pakhtunkhawa’s district Buner.

The officials from the Directorate General Intelligence and Investigation-Inland, during the raid, were given threats by the manufacturers. Peshawar I&I-IR Additional Director Muhammad Ayaz has submitted a report to the Director General I&I-IR in Islamabad regarding the raid in village Chingley, Buner. According to the report, the cigarette manufacturing unit was running under the supervision of Waheed Khan without getting Federal Excise registration and, thus, the unit was involved in the evasion of Federal Excise Duty.

Dg Valuation issues order-in-Revision no 273/2016 against VR no 931/2016

FAISALABAD

KARACHI

IQRA ShEhZADI

muBEEn huSSAIn

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he Excise and Taxation Department has collected Rs727.465 million in the wake of property tax from July to November 2016 of the current fiscal year. Sources told Customs Today that excise department collected Rs 636.181million as property tax from Faisalabad during the above said period. It has achieved yearly target of Rs 1,310.088 million up to 49 percent Similarly, it has collected Rs 26.099 million from Jhang against the assigned target of Rs 66.917 million for the year and it has achieved its target up to 39 percent.

From Chiniot, it has generated Rs22.355 million in wake of property tax by achieving its target of Rs 67.565 million. Excise Toba Tek Singh assigned Rs 42.829 million target for the running year, while it has collected Rs 85.840 million by achieving the target up to 66 percent. The Excise and Taxation department has formed teams to recover property tax from defaulters. The team will take action in different areas of its jurisdiction including Chak Jhumra , Jaranwala , Tanlianwala , Samundri and Dajkot .

Official said that teams will be headed by Assistant Director of property tax branch Rana Safdar.

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irector General Customs Valuation Syed Tanveer Ahmed has issued Orderin-Revision No. 273/2016 under section 25-D of the Customs Act, 1969 against Valuation Ruling No. 931/2016, pertaining to sub-meters, issued on September 21, 2016.

The revision petition was Uiled by M/s MAS Enterprises.

The petitioner stated that the values given in valuation ruling are exaggerated, grossly overvalued and without any substantial support / proof, which are badly affecting commercial interests. All commercial importers have stopped further imports until fair values are determined. The petitioner also said that imported sub-meters are simple in technology and used as subarrangement between power utility consumer and his sub user. These are 180 degree different in nature and prices viz a viz meters being approved by power distribution companies and are being procured from local assemblers/manufacturers.

The impugned valuation ruling has harassed commercial importers who Uind in no way commercially viable import of this category and resultantly illegal import will thrive at the cost of legitimate import, causing loss of millions of rupees to the national exchequer, added the peti-

faisalabad Excise collects Rs 727.465 m as property tax

tioner. The petitioner also requested the veriUication of his submissions through market surveys, adding that he had submitted the commercial samples for the convenience and better understanding of the product by the ofUicials.

The Director General Customs Valuation in his order stated that the hearing in this case was Uixed on November 9, 2016 and petitioner Mr Awais, the owner of MAS Enterprises

appeared. He contended that single phase meters were clear vide valuation ruling No. 565/2013 at $2.37/pc, non-digital at $4.00/pc and digital meters at $8.00/pc. He said that he was willing to surrender goods at his value. The respondent department said that quotations were received from the market but the meters were big and approved by KESC and WAPDA. In case, the manufacturers such as M/s Syed Bhai, PEL, Siemens

and Micro Tech are unable to supply meters, the KESC and WAPDA direct their consumers to buy meters themselves from the market. The revision was Uiled by the present importer only. No other importer Uiled the revision application. In view of the situation, the customs values of S.No.2 – 4 were determined after examining the import data and market inquiry and analyzing all information for 3 categories.

Ihc adjourns hearing of tax references filed against fBR T

KARACHI

wAQAR AhmED AnSARI www.customsbulletin.com

he Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of four tax references against Uield ofUice of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Two benches of the IHC heard the tax references Uiled by M/s TNB Liberty Power Limited, M/s Fauji Cement Limited, M/s Wateen Telecom Limited and M/s WiTribe Pakistan.

The Uirst three cases were heard by a division bench headed by Justice Athar Minallah. The bench ‘dated in ofUice’ hearing of these references with directions to submit supporting documents to the counsels involved.

The appellants had challenged the recovery notices before the IHC through the said cases. The LTU had issued the recovery notices in recent months under the head of different taxes.

Meanwhile, IHC division bench comprising Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb

adjourned the hearing of another tax reference for the next weeks. This bench was hearing a case Uiled by M/s WiTribe Pakistan. Through both the references, M/s WiTribe Pakistan had named chief commissioner Inland Revenue, LTU, assistant commissioner Inland Revenue Withholding, LTU, commissioner Inland Revenue (Appeals), LTU, and Federal of Pakistan through the chairman of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) as respondents in the case. M/s WiTribe Pakistan Limited had challenged

show-cause notices issued during month of August for the tax year 2015 under the head of income tax under sections of Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. M/s WiTribe Pakistan had prayed the court to direct the LTU not to recover the said amount and stay away from any coercive action in this regard. The petitioner had prayed the court operation of the impugned notices may kindly be suspended till the decisions of the appeal pending before the LTU. M/s WiTribe Pakistan submitted before

the court that the impugned showcause notices were issued under mala-Uide intentions and had no legal standing or authority and the court may decide on relief which it deemed appropriate in this regard. It also stated that a due legal course was not followed by the department in issuing the orders. The appellant had also mentioned that departmental obligations were not met amid processing the notices of recovery demand while later the adjudication did not addressed grievances of the appellant.

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ASO foils bid to smuggle contraband items worth millions of rupees KARACHI: The Anti Smuggling Organization (ASO) of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation has foiled a bid to smuggle contraband items worth millions of rupees.

According to details, the ASO raided a bus at Jacobabad and seized contraband items, including hashish, non-duty paid cigarettes and Indian gutka worth millions of rupees.

Source informed Customs Today that the ASO officials intercepted the bus at a check post near Jacobabad and recovered hundreds of cartons of cigarettes of Oscar Blue and Pine Light brands, Indian gutka, Pan Parag and hashish. The bus was coming from Quetta to Hyderabad.

732,341 people file tax returns till 15th against 1.2m target

Saturday December 24, 2016

National

hyderabad ASo seizes huge quantity of smuggle goods, vehicle during action

ISLAMABAD

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s many as 732,341 people filed tax returns till the deadline of December 15 against the target of 1.2 million. The number is much less than last year’s 1.074 million even after the government extended deadline fourth time to file income tax returns for tax year 2016.

According to the FBR figure, only 631,292 people had filed their returns till December 15 last year. The number increased to 1.074 million by March 2016. FBR spokesman Dr Mohammad Iqbal said the government would not give any further extension for filing the tax returns. There were reports that the FBR may have to extend the date till December 31.

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Jhang ASo seizes smuggled Rani juice from multan Road FAISALABAD

nAEEm ShEIkh

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he Anti Smuggling Organization (ASO) Jhang has seized 4676 tin pack of foreign origin Rani juice packed in 1248 cartons. The expiry date of the seized juice is October 2017 while market value of the juice is Rs 2166000 involving customs duty and taxes Rs 504000. Sources told Customs Today that Deputy Collector Muhammad Rizwan directed Anti Smuggling Organization Jhang about the smuggling of Rani juice. After receiving this information, Deputy Collector immediately constituted a raiding team comprising Superintendent Saeed Akhtar Joiya, Inspector Shiukat Khan, Abdul Nasir, Nashir Hussain and Ghulam Abbas (driver), Muhammad Ali, and Muhammad Ajmal Ziaullah Cheema (sepoys). The ASO team intercepted a vehicle bearing registration no. TLS 570 near Doli Shaheed Toll Plaza Multan Road Jhang.

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HYDERABAD

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he Anti-Smuggling Orgaisation (ASO) team has seized foreign origin 1210 packet of Indian Gutka value at Rs 6,05.000 involving duty/taxes amounting to Rs,2,80,720 during a raid near City Gate Bus Stop.

Source told Customs Today that Additional Collector Umer ShaUiq received credible information about some smuggling attempts. He immediately constituted a ASO team comprising Sikander Akbar Pahnwar, Inspector Waqar Ahmed Baig, Inspector Shakeel Khan, Inspector Mushtaq Ali Lakho, Inspector Waqar Sareo, Sepoyes Essa Chandio, Nenomal, Abid Ali, Attique Khokher and driver Omer Solngi which took part in the operation.

The established various check posts at main entry and exit points of Hyderabad city and started checking of vehicles. During checking the team intercepted a vehicle and recovered huge quantity of Indian Gutka. While during another crackdown ASO team intercepted New Shakeel Asif Goods Transport Company and recovered huge quantity of non duty paid cigarettes worth Rs 4,13,750 involving duty/taxes to the tune of Rs5,79.248/- which were brought into the country without the payment of duty taxes causing loss to the national exchequer.

Sources said that in another ac-

tion the ASO impounded one foreign origin smuggled Toyota Land Cruiser V8 bearing registration BF9776 worth Rs 4 million involving duty / taxes amounting to Rs. 79,40,000/- whereas it also conUiscated smuggled contraband items amounting to Rs. 2,88,652/-.

Sources said that ASO team which seized the above mentioned Toyota Land Cruiser and smuggled goods includes Deputy Superintendent Sikander Akbar Pahnwar, In-

ASo team intercepted new Shakeel Asif goods Transport company and recovered huge quantity of non duty paid cigarettes worth Rs 4,13,750 involving duty/taxes to the tune of Rs5,79.248/- which were brought into the country without the payment of duty taxes causing loss to the national exchequer

Anf burns 51 tonnes narcotics

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RAWALPINDI

cuSTomS BuLLETIn REpoRT

www.customsbulletin.com he Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has burnt 51.577 metric tons of narcotics in a ceremony, presided over by State Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Balighur Rehman. Addressing the ceremony, the state minister said, “We must do more to protect our loved ones from drugs and all of us have a part to play in this effort.” Conceding that Pakistan had a big drug problem, He said that it

warranted concerted efforts from the government and civil society through a multi-pronged and well integrated strategy. He urged national and international communities to play their role in eliminating the use of drugs in the society. He added that Pakistan had signed agreements with 32countries on this subject. Cesar Guedes, the country head of United Nations OfUice on Drugs and Crime said that their annual drug report, released in June, had also highlighted the enormity of the drug problem in the region. He added

that the fallout from drugs impacted not only on Pakistan but also the world at large. “Pakistan has been a poppy-free country since 2002 but the region still produces over 90 per cent of the world’s opiates that puts Pakistan in double jeopardy of being a victim as well as a transit country,” Guedes said. BrieUing about the measures taken by the ANF, the force’s director general Major General Nasir Dilawar Shah said that approximately 51.577 metric tons worth $152 million of narcotics had been burnt.

spector Waqar Ahmad baig, Inspector Shakeel Khan, Inspector Nazim Ali, Inspector Mushtaq Alui Lakho sepoyes and driver were also taking part in anti-smuggling activities. Meanwhile, The AntiSmuggling Organization (ASO) has conUiscated non duty paid cigarettes, Gutka and 9 kilograms of super quality opium from a coach worth Rs22.5 million and arrested two accused persons during a crackdown here.

kohat customs foils smuggling bids he Peshawar Customs has foiled smuggling bids and seized two containers in two different raids. The Kohat Division’s Anti-Smuggling Units, on intelligence-based operations, seized two containers loaded with a smuggled vehicle, auto parts, edibles and other assorted goods. The two seizures are worth several tens of millions in total.

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CDNS achieves Rs94b target by Dec 15 ISLAMABAD: The Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) achieved Rs94 billion in last months of second quarter of current fiscal year from July 1 to December 15, 2016-17.

The target for the year 2016-17 was set at Rs228 billion as the directorate was able to achieve the target of Rs218 billion for the previous fiscal year, a senior CDNS official said. The Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) has notified upward revision in the profit rates for various saving certificates which has been applicable from October 3, 2016. “The instant revision was made in the backdrop of current market scenario and in accordance with the government’s policy to provide market.

Saturday December 24, 2016

Business

kE told to improve supply, cut tariff KARACHI

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indh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has asked the new management of K-Electric to upgrade its supply, transmission and distribution system so that smooth power supply could be made to the citizens of Karachi. “You will have to reduce the tariff and will have to give special incentives to the people living in slum areas and katchi abadis so that every consumer can pay the bill,” he added.

The chief minister stated this while speaking to a delegation of the new KE management led by its vice president Xia Meixing on Thursday.

SBp's reserves continue to fall KARACHI

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oreign exchange reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) decreased 0.72% on a weekly basis on December 16, according to data released by the central bank on Thursday.

The SBP’s liquid foreign exchange reserves dropped $132.8 million to $18,190.4 million compared to $18,323.2 million in the previous week.

Total liquid foreign reserves held by the country, including net reserves held by banks other than the SBP, stood at $23,132.0 million.

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Highlighting the dire need for improving the entire KE system, including generation, transmission and distribution, the chief minister said he was working for more electricity production through differ-

ent sources. “A power project at Nooriabad would start generating 100 megawatts next year and I have requested the federal government to provide gas to the plant so that its capacity could be doubled

and the federal government has given assurance to me in this regard,” he said. KE vice president Xia Meixing said that he had started the process of taking over the KE for which his company had worked out an incentive plan in power tariff and would work together with the government for community development. He said that his company Shanghai Power Supply Company was one of the largest companies in the world. “Shanghai is industrial hub of China and the company is providing smooth power supply to industrial units, commercial areas and domestic consumers.” He said that his company would invest $9 billion to improve the entire system of the KE and would also announce packages for poor domestic consumers.

govt releases Rs 18.8m for narcotics control projects ISLAMABAD

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he government has so far released Rs18.8 million for various projects of Narcotics Control Division against the total allocations of Rs218.425 million under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2016-17.

The amount would be spent on five projects of the division, total cost of which has been estimated at Rs4917.2 billion, according to the data of Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform. According to breakup figures, an amount of Rs6.8 million has been released for Khybe Area Development Project FATA (Jamrud, Khyber Agency) out of its total allocations of Rs37 million earmarked in the federal PSDP with Rs20 million as foreign component.

The government also released Rs4.8 million for Bajaur Area Development Project (Bajaur Agency) for which Rs42 million have been allocated in PSDP including Rs30 million foreign component. An amount of Rs4.8 has also been released for Mohmand Area Development Project (MG) Located at Mohmand Agency, FATA. In total allocations of Rs30 million have been earmarked for this project in the PSDP 2016-17, which also include foreign component of Rs30 million.

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E-commerce has potential to reach $1 billion by 2020 T

ISLAMABAD

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he Uirst meeting of e-Commerce Policy Board, chaired by Minister for Finance Muhammad Ishaq Dar, has been informed that sector is still in its infancy in Pakistan but it was estimated to reach $1 billion by 2020 provided the correct regulatory framework and infrastructure is in place.

The Board has recently been constituted by Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif to oversee the

cross-institutional efforts of creating an e-Commerce Policy Framework being coordinated by the Ministry of Commerce, said a statement issued by the Uinance ministry.

The minister said that formation of the e-Commerce Policy Board was proof of the government’s serious commitment to the promotion of eCommerce in Pakistan.

He highlighted the importance of creating a conducive environment for the growth of e-Commerce in the country, including through provision of the requisite infrastructure, and legal and regulatory framework.

Secretary Commerce briefed the Board on the current status and future prospects of e-Commerce globally and in Pakistan. He informed that e-Commerce now accounted for nearly 2.6 per cent of global GDP. Commerce Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan informed the Board that e-Commerce had become a globally important issue in the World Trade Organization. He emphasized that it was extremely important for Pakistan to create an environment in the country which would lead to high growth of SMEs, including e-Commerce initiatives.

huawei nova plus is ruling the pakistani market LAHORE

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uawei has recently launched its revolutionary smartphone Nova Plus in the Pakistan market, where the customers have shown tremendous enthusiasm towards this pioneering device. The Nova Plus runs on a Snapdragon625, 64 Bit, Octa-core 2.0GHz processor, enriched with an Android

6.0 operating system, 3GB RAM, 32GB ROM and an Emotion UI 4.1.

The Nova Plus has gotten tremendous reviews and ratings from the tech-specialists and experts on its unique features and advanced technology. The surveys taken from local mobile shops, shows a tremendous demand for the Nova Plus and shows a keen interest from the tech-savvy segment.

The knuckle-sense technology enables users to capture screenshots,

make recordings and operate in split-screen mode and allows more convenient navigation. The 3D Uingerprint sensor ensures complete protection of data of the consumer.

The Marketing Director of Huawei Pakistan stated that: Besides featuring the most advanced ‘Knuckle-sense technology and 3D Fingerprint recognition features, Nova Plus is equipped with a 5.5 inch FHD screen with 2.5D curved glass display and an Eye-protection

mode. It has a powerful 16MP (1.12μm, PDAF & CAF) Rear camera, along with an 8MP Front camera, enabling 4K Video shooting with amazing clarity, detail and many other features like Beauty makeup2.0, Beautiful Skin 3.0, Triaxial Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), Dual-tone Flash HDR technology, etc. It is powered by an HD 3,340 mAh battery, optimized by a ‘Smart Power Management’ feature. In addition to the longer battery life and

enhanced performance of this 4G enabled device, the Premium 16MP camera with OIS allows the users to capture thousands of images on a single charge. It is enriched with the Sony IMX298 wide-aperture image sensor, 6P aspheric lens and antishake feature, for sharper, richer photos, capturing more light and authentic colors, even in low-light. The composite focusing system supports hybrid PDAF and CAF focusing, for faster auto-focus speeds.

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he Finance Ministry has been pursuing a comprehensive tax reforms program in order to reduce dependence on foreign loans through generation of adequate taxes.

Moreover, the Finance Ministry is also optimistic that Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) with Afghanistan and China will check under invoicing as well as Computerized Risk-based Evaluation of Sales Tax (CREST) and Sales Tax Real-Time Invoice VeriUication System (STRIVe) will be helpful for risk based analysis of sales tax returns.

A source at the Finance Ministry told Customs Today that the ministry has been pursuing a package of measures to stabilize and strengthen the national economy endogenously instead of obtaining foreign loans to meet the Uinancial crunch.

The source said that now the government had increased macroeconomic stability and GDP growth to a signiUicant level and maintained above 4% in the last 3 years as well as reduced the reliance on foreign loans through domestic resource mobilization, prudent expenditure management.

The source added that Uiscal consolidation trough social safety net and development spending had not only protected but enhanced

considerably. Broadening the tax base, restructuring the public sector enterprises, building foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate stability, containment of inUlation as well as overcoming energy shortages have also been achieved by dint of the said measures. To a question about steps taken for increasing revenue collection, the source said that Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had been made more active for broadening of tax base by strengthening Tax Audit through empowering FBR to withdraw SROs. Similarly, the source said that risk based sales tax registration system, roll-out of WeBOC and a few other measures had also produced very good results in transparency in refund payments, integrated transit trade management system as well as capping smuggling.

Meanwhile, The Federal Finance Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar chaired the 3rd meeting of the 9th National Finance Commission (NFC) here. The meeting was attended by the Members of the Commission namely M/s Dr. Aisha Ghaus Pasha, Finance Minister Punjab, Mr. Said Muzaffar Advocate, Finance Minister KPK, Senator Saleem Mandviwala, Member Sindh, Prof. Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, Member KPK, Dr. Kaiser Bengali, Member Balochistan and Dr. Ali Cheema, Member Punjab. he meeting was also attended

by Federal Finance Secretary, Member/Fed-

eral Expert, Chairman, FBR, Additional Finance Secretary (IGF), Joint Secretary/Secretary NFC, Finance Division and the four Provincial Finance Secretaries.

se, tax ba e h t g ctor enin blic se u B ro a d p e g th eign c turin ng for i d l re s t r u i u b e rate rises, chang x e d enterp n as a serves flation e n r i f e o g n ges ment excha shor ta ontain c y , g y r t e i l n t of stabi ing e by din vercom d o e v s e a i l wel en ach re s lso be measu have a d i a s the

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Founder & Chairman Zulfiqar Ali Editor Rahil Yasin editor@customsbulletin.com.pk For advertising & subscription marketing@customsbulletin.com.pk www.customsbulletin.com Phones: 042-35781643-4, Fax: 042-35781645 Address: 627, Siddiq Trade Centre, Gulberg, Lahore

EDIToRIAL

need to enhance tax net

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Japanese envoy has recently pinpointed various issues concerning the economy of Pakistan and other pressing issues. According to him, the economy is on the path of recovery and is expected to grow by five percent during the current fiscal year and taking this advantage the government should try to create a balance between the economic growth and social stability. He also pointed out that there is high number of salaried class in Pakistan as well as varied standards of living. It is hard to keep balance between economic growth and social sectors but there is need to pay attention to education, health and other social problems facing the nation. No doubt the government has to enhance tax base, reduce debt size and modernize the economy through structural reforms and sustainable policies. As the volume of black money is increasing in the country, the policymakers have to use their minds to revitalize the economy in the given circumstances. It is the proven fact that corruption cannot be eliminated as all the efforts which are made so far in this regard ended in smoke. The volume of black money is equal to the volume of the actual economy in official record. However, the black money is growing with every passing day. According to experts, the volume of formal or documented economy is $250, which is better than many other countries in the region, but it is not at a satisfactory level. The government will have to work hard to devise a mechanism not only to reduce the scale of black money, but also improve tax collection system by enhancing tax net. Black money is the real problem of the country, but steps are required to prevent it from its flight to other countries. The government should have to take steps to keep the black money within the country by introducing business schemes. Tough laws only enhance troubles as it is difficult to expect implementation of the government plans in a corrupt environment. The tax evaders use various methods to stay away from tax collecting authorities. The introduction of mechanism is the need of the hour to enhance tax base. There are thousands and thousands small industrial units which are out of the bounds of the tax net. It should be made mandatory for all the businesses, small or large, to register themselves with the relevant government departments and get the tax number.

problem of current account deficit A

LAHORE

DR AfTAB AfZAL

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ccording to a report of the State Bank of Pakistan, the current account deUicit has increased by 91 percent to $2.601 billion in the Uirst Uive months of the current Uiscal year.The deUicit reached 120 percent to $839 million in November as compared to the previous year in the backdrop of increasing imports and decreasing exports. The country has failed to attract foreign direct investment which is drastically decreased during the recent months.

Pakistan received only $460 million and that also from China as part of the ongoing projects. On the contrary, foreign investment

in India and Bangladesh have increased many fold during the period. The remittances sent by Pakistani expatriates have also been falling as most of the workers are returning home due to recession in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere in the world. The government will have to adopt proactive approach to deal with the emerging situation as the burden of loans is growing, trade deUicit are increasing and industrial surplus is absent.The policymakers are unprepared to keep pace with the changing circumstances. When government increases its expenditures but fails to generate resources, an economic disaster is imminent. The bank report says that the current account deUicit reUlects the country’s growing trade

gap with various countries of the world as the gulf between moneyin and money-out is increasing.

According to news reports, the foreign direct investment has decreased by a whopping 45 percent while the trade deUicit in terms of goods and services have crossed $10 billion mark, creating an alarming situation for the nation.

The government is struggling to maintain its foreign exchange reserves through artiUicial means as the economy is under pressure due to falling exports. The government ministers were thumping their chest on the so-called economic stability and strong rupee value against dollar in the country. However, the rupee value is continuously diluting in the open market and the government

is looking for a loan programme to stabilize the rupee as well as maintain foreign exchange reserves at a certain level. At a time dollar has crossed Rs108 in the open market amid rising demand and short supply, the government still has time to do some homework to give direction to the economy. The ministers should stop lip-service and put all their energies to streamline the affairs of their respective ministries. The Uinancial situation will not improve until the policymakers shun their lethargic attitude and start programmes to create trade surplus in the country. And trade surplus is directly linked with energy supply and tax relief. It is yet to be seen how the government manages the whole scheme of things.

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Russia boosted rice exports MOSCOW: Russia has doubled rice exports since the beginning of 2016/17. So, 57 KMT was exported from Russia in the first four months of the season compared to 28 KMT in July-October 2015/16, reports UkrAgroConsult.

As before, the key destination market is Turkey with an export share of 38%. It is worth noting that the European Union stepped up imports of Russian rice.

In the period under review, the EU imported 8.3 KMT compared to 9.9 KMT for the full season of 2015/16.

In addition, Libya renewed rice imports from Russia and bought 6 KMT there in the reviewed period. Last time Libya imported rice from Russia back three years ago (5.5 KMT in December 2013).

Sri Lanka keen to promote trade ties with pakistan ISLAMABAD

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ri Lanka is keen to promote trade with Pakistan as enhanced trade would help in improving living standards of the people of both countries. This was said by Major Gen. ® Jayanath Lokukatagodage, High Commissioner of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka while addressing business community at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He said Pakistan is the second largest trading partner of Sri Lanka in South Asia and there are numerous fields in which both countries can develop mutual collaboration. He said Sri Lank has introduced liberalized investment regime and free of cost land is offered to foreign investors for investment in specific sectors. He said Sri Lanka can be considered as one of the most attractive investment destinations in

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South-East Asia region due to its resilient economy, supportive government policies, educated and adaptable workforce, access to key markets, fast developing infrastructure and vibrant business environment. He urged that Pakistani investors should explore Sri Lanka for investment opportunities in areas of interest. He said Pakistan is providing important defense cooperation to Sri Lanka and added that agriculture & tourism have good potential for bilateral cooperation. He said both countries should focus on organizing trade fairs on reciprocal basis to boost up trade. He said ICCI should take a business delegation to Sri Lanka and assured that his embassy would provide all necessary cooperation to make its visit successful. Speaking at the occasion, Khalid Malik, Acting President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that Sri Lanka .

Saturday December 24, 2016

Chambers

nordic pakistan Business Summit to be held in finland next year N LAHORE

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ordic Pakistan Business Summit (NPBS) will be held at the start of next year in Finland.

Pakistani business community must participate in this event as it would provide them a platform to establish new business contacts in Nordic region (Finland, Denmark, Norway Sweden etc). This was stated by Pakistani Honorary Consul General in Finland Wille Eerola while talking to the LCCI Vice President Muhammad Nasir Hameed Khan here. The LCCI executive committee members Adnan Khalid Butt, Tanvir Ahmed, Tahir Manzoor Chaudhry, Javed Iqbal Siddiqui, Awais Saeed Piracha and former Executive Committee Member Raja Adeel Ashfaq were also present on the occasion.

Wille Eerola said that Finland and Pakistan have a huge scope to expand relations in various sectors of the economy therefore the private sector in Pakistan should enhance its interaction with Finnish counterparts. He said that the existing trade volume between Pakistan and Finland is enough to make the

point that both sides have multifaceted and strong trade ties. He said a number of Finnish companies had already recognized Pakistan’s potential and are working here.

Speaking on the occasion, LCCI Vice President Muhammad Nasir Hameed Khan said that joint venture opportunities exist in the Uield of power generation and for development of biomass technology. He said Finnish equipment and technologies can help exploit Pakistan’s full potential in agriculture, horticulture, dairy and livestock sectors.

The LCCI Vice President suggested that it is necessary that both countries have access to each other’s markets to further expand commercial and economic ties. This will deUinitely lead both sides to a more strengthened and stable economic partnership. He said that LCCI values to have greater interaction with Finnish counterparts in order to develop close linkages. The LCCI Vice President said that Pakistan can partner with Finnish technological think tank for development of technological industry in Pakistan. The

kccI pays glowing tribute to outgoing corps commander, Dg Rangers

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KARACHI

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he leadership of Businessmen Group (BMG) and ofUice bearers of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), while congratulating Lt. Gen. Naveed Mukhtar and Lt. Gen. Bilal Akbar on their appointments as DG ISI and Chief of General Staff respectively, paid glowing tribute to both the outgoing ofUicers for their untiring efforts and noteworthy contribution towards restoring peace and tranquility in Karachi.

In a statement issued, Chairman Businessmen Group & Former President KCCI Siraj Kassam Teli, Vice Chairmen BMG Tahir Khaliq, Zubair Motiwala, Haroon Farooki & Anjum

Nisar, President KCCI Shamim Ahmed Firpo, Senior Vice President KCCI Asif Nisar and Vice President KCCI Muhammad Younus Soomro, welcomed the decision to appoint Lt. Gen. Naveed Mukhtar as Director General Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Lt. Gen. Bilal Akbar as Chief of General Staff (CGS) which they rightly deserved. “These appointments clearly indicate the fact that Lt. Gen. Naveed Mukhtar and Lt. Gen. Bilal Akbar have performed exceptionally well in their ofUicial endeavors”, they added. They also eulogized the professionalism and preparedness of both the ofUicers who worked tirelessly to ensure that no matter what it takes, the wheels of industries must keep spinning in a safe and secure business environment. “With the appointment of

such highly determined ofUicers at some of the key positions, we are conUident that the defense of the country is in safe and capable hands”, they added. They said that the entire business and industrial community of Karachi will always remember the hard work, determination, struggle and matchless contribution by both the ofUicers towards restoring peace in the city under Karachi Operation initiated in 2013 which yielded positive results as the overall security situation in Karachi city was not the same as it was some three years ago. They further noted that Lt. Gen. Naveed Mukhtar remained Corps Commander of Karachi and Lt. Gen. Bilal Akbar continued as Director General of Pakistan Rangers Sindh at a very crucial time.

LCCI Vice President said that over 400 Finnish companies are currently operating in South Asian Region and had made substantial investment in the last ten years in this part of the world and business community here is of strong hope that more Finnish investors would divert their attention towards Pakistan in coming days. Earlier, the LCCI executive committee members Adnan Khalid Butt and former EC member Raja Adeel Ashfaq threw light on potential of the province of Punjab in particular. They said that Pakistan is a land of opportunities as it offers huge dividend on foreign investments. Major items of imports from Finland are electric appliances, tapes for sound records, parts for motor engines, enzymes, chemical wood pulp, newsprint, pressure reducing valves, electric transformers, paper & paperboard, polymers of ethylene, electric motors & generators etc. Pakistan’s top exports to Finland are articles of apparel & clothing, woven fabric (synthetic staple Uiber), woven cotton fabric, bed, table, kitchen linens, articles & equipment of gymnastics, men’s suits & jackets.

LccI’s founder group rejects Audit policy 2016 of fBR udit Policy 2016 of the Federal Board of Revenue is nothing else but an attempt to pinch the existing taxpayers instead of expanding the tax net. Audit Policy 2016 will give new tactics to the FBR machinery to harass the business community therefore business community should be taken into confidence before its implementation otherwise it will cause confrontation between FBR and the private sector. Less than 1% people are paying direct tax while tax-to-GDP ratio is one of the lowest in the world. Situation is demanding relief measures for the taxpayers to expand tax net but situation is quite different and FBR making the existing taxpayers a horrible example for those who are not in the tax net.—CB Report

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Govt approves Rs 60m for new terminal at Wagha trade route Saturday December 24, 2016

National faisalabad Excise collects Rs 727.465m as pT FAISALABAD

IQRA ShEhZADI

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he Excise and Taxation Department has collected Rs727.465 million in the wake of property tax from July to November 2016 of the current fiscal year. Sources told Customs Today that excise department collected Rs 636.181million as property tax from Faisalabad during the above said period. It has achieved yearly target of Rs 1,310.088 million up to 49 percent Similarly, it has collected Rs 26.099 million from Jhang against the assigned target of Rs 66.917 million for the year and it has achieved its target up to 39 percent.

From Chiniot, it has generated Rs22.355 million in wake of property tax by achieving its target of Rs 67.565 million. Excise Toba Tek Singh assigned Rs 42.829 million target for the running year, while it has collected Rs 85.840 million by achieving the target up to 66 percent. The Excise and Taxation department has formed teams to recover property tax from defaulters.

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Dc mariam mehdi reshuffles appraisers, other staff ariam Mehdi Raja, the deputy collector (establishment) Customs Collectorate Appraisement West, has reshuffled principal appraisers, appraisers and other staff. According to an office order No 159/2016-ESTT (AW), Principal Appraiser Asad Masood has been transferred from Group-V and posted at Group-VIII, Principal Appraiser Iqbal Hussain from Group-VIII to Group-V, Principal Appraiser Zafar Iqbal from KICT to BOML, Appraiser Muhammad Sultan from KICT to AICT and Appraiser Ameer Ahmed Samoo from Assessment Hall to KICT. Meanwhile, in another office order, Deputy Collector Mariam Mehdi Raja has made transfer/posting of the following staff with immediate effect and until further orders.—Aftab Channa

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LAHORE: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) development department working party has approved funds for construction of a new terminal at Wagha border to facilitate trade activities between Pakistan and India. According to sources of Customs Today DDWP has approved funds for construction of new terminal at Wagha border and District Coordination Officer (DCO) Lahore will acquire land for this purpose. Sources said that concerned DCO Lahore will acquire land of 10 acres at Wagha border under section 4. Old trade terminal at Wagha border is not as per requirements of trade volume and there was badly need to construct a new and vast terminal as trade.

Dg Javed ghani assures businessmen to resolve issues of Afghan transit trade D

PESHAWAR

nADIR khAn

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Director General Transit Trade Javed Ghani visited transit directorate Peshawar and assured the officials of transit trade and office-bearers of PakAfghan joint chamber of commerce (PAJCCI) to resolve their issues related to trade through Pak-Afghan border. The meeting was presided over by Director Transit Trade Fayaz Anwar, Additional Director Ziaullah Shams, Deputy Director Adeem Khan. Director General Transit Trade also met with delegation of Pak-Afghan joint chamber of commerce and industry. The delegation was comprised Director PAJCCI Imtiaz Ahmad Ali, President of Frontier Customs Agents Group Haji Gul Afzal

Shinawari, General Secretary Farooq Ahmad and member executive body Shakil Ahmad.

The delegation welcomed the visit of Javed Ghani to Peshawar

and appraised him regarding the issues facing the business community via Afghan transit trade.

The delegation asked for ending the monopoly of bonded carriers

and make them liable to ensure safe and secure supply of goods to the marked destinations.

The business community also demanded to activate the current tracking system because the tracking system efficiency is very poor and they are only receiving their fees. They said that there are also problems in customs clearing at Karachi as the system is marking five percent goods while the staff is examining the whole container.

There are also loopholes in laboratory, and whenever there are goods supply and theft related issues, FIR is being lodged against customs clearing agents while the goods are owned by the supplier.

They also demanded cancellation of NOC of Afghan traders who are involved in smuggling and theft of goods.

customs foils bid to smuggle foreign currency C

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ustom Preventive staff deputed at Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore has impounded 40 ,000 dirham from a passenger who attempted to smuggle the amount to Dubai.

The sources said that the accused was held when he tried to smuggle the dirham hiding in a box of sweets. It was reported that the accused person has been identiUied as Shahzad who is owner of Lahori Sweets was also held in a separate attempt to smuggle currency and arrested red handed.

It was added that the accused Shahzad declared that he was having with him legal amount of foreign currency but when on suspicion he was searched by the customs authorities they recovered 40000 UAE dirhams from his possession. The customs authorities seized the same in the presence of two witnesses. It was added that the customs authorities, however, had not arrested the

accused and let him go after impounding the illegal quantity of the dirhams. The sources said that that the customs authorities after registering a case have

seized the currency. On the other hand, another source said that the seizure of the currency has been conducted in line with the newly implemented policy to stop cur-

rency smuggling at any case. The sources said that the Customs Preventive has recently evolved a strategy to curb the money laundering at any cost.

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Customs AFU lodges FIR against alleged mobile phone smugglers FAISALABAD: The Customs Air Freight Unit (AFU) Faisalabad has lodged an FIR against Muhammad Bilal son of Ghulam Murtaza resident of mohallah Afghanabad Faisalabad holding passport no. AB370324 having CNIC No, 33100-9102732-3 who is involved in mobile smuggling. According to details, Assistant Collector Idrees Qureshi received information that huge quantity of foreign origin mobile phones and liqour being brought into country from UAE. The AFU team deputed at Faisalabad International Airport enhanced checking measures and intercepted a passenger Muhammad Bilal who was coming from FIA counter side into the arrival hall for exit. He was carrying three shopping bags and two hand bags. On inquiry the passenger disclosed that there is nothing objectionable with him.

customs seizes 727 grams gold worth Rs 3.2m at Islamabad airport ISLAMABAD

TARIQ DERYA

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n attempt to smuggle gold worth Rs 3.2 million was foiled by the customs staff at Benazir Bhutto International Airport on Wednesday. Collector Dr Arslan Subactageen told Customs Today that the airport staff recovered 727 grams gold worth Rs 3.2 million from one of the passengers, Liaquat Ali, who had arrived from Mascat via PIA Flight No PK-292. Dr Arslan said that a major crackdown has been started against gold smugglers at Islamabad airport in recent days. He

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said that the department has taken various measures to thwart gold smuggling attempts. He said that vigilant staff has been doubled (nine inspectors and two deputy superintendents) for rummaging of aircrafts destined for Mascat and Dubai. The collector added that random inspection of engineering and catering vehicles has been ordered to curb the chances of gold smuggling and the Customs Collectorate has ensured the presence of Customs staff at the final scanners on the exit points.

Collector Arslan said that the department has ordered the presence of custom staff at Rawal lounge, continuous display and announcement of prevalent rules relating to currency taking in /out of country and getting gold into the country.

He said that the department has ordered the airport staff for body search of all law enforcement agencies working within the airport.

National

customs nabs 3 officials for clearing shipment by mis-declaration A

KARACHI

muBEEn huSSAIn

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t least three customs ofUicers were arrested on Wednesday on charges of clearing a shipment by mis-declaration and causing millions of rupees losses to the national exchequer.

Source told Customs Today that Director General Customs Intelligence and Investigation Shaukat Ali and the regional director were scheduled to brief the media persons about the case. However, the press brieUing was postponed to ascertain the reasons of the seizure.

The source stated that the Customs ofUicers, during the checking at the Port Muhammad Bin Qasim, intercepted four containers that were being cleared through Green Channel with the help of three customs ofUicers. The containers contained a huge quantity of non-duty paid clothes, mobile accessories, calculators, cosmetics, herbal beauty care products, pharmaceuticals and other valuable items. The suspects mentioned the valuables as steel scrap in the four containers and wanted to

save millions of rupees duty and taxes. The consignment was to be sent to a party at Gujranwala. A case has been lodged against the arrested ofUicials whereas the containers have been taken into the custody. The Directorate General of Customs Intelligence and Investigations, taking in-

Saturday December 24, 2016

terest in the case, has directed the ofUicers to arrest the mastermind of the case. The authorities asked the customs ofUicers to adopt zero tolerance policy against corruption. The Directorate General is expected to reschedule the press brieUing against the mega seizure.

Sialkot customs seizes 500 gram heroin at Airport SIALKOT

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ustoms Preventive staff of Model Customs Collectorate, Sialkot posted at Sialkot International Airport recovered 500 grams heroin from a passenger who was going to Jeddah.

Customs official told Customs Today that a resident of Multan city namely Muhammad Zubair son of Muhammad Iqbal was going to Jeddah from the said airport on Wednesday evening by a flight of private airline. During the checking process the passenger was entering in the compound of airport where the Customs Preventive staff intercepted him and searched his body and luggage. During the checking of the luggage the staff recovered 500 grams heroin from his shoes. The staff seized heroin and nabbed him whereas the staff also handed over the accused to Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) for further interrogation whereas the ANF detained him with help of airport security forces in the judicial lock-up of Police Station Airport. During the investigation Zubair committed that he smuggled heroin and other narcotics earlier from other airports but he used Sialkot Airport for first time.

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Dg Valuation revises values of games, switches & sockets

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KARACHI

wAQAR AhmED AnSARI www.customsbulletin.com

he Directorate General of Customs Valuation has revised the customs values of children games as well as switches and sockets under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969. The customs value of the children games has been revised through Valuation Ruling No 992/2016. Earlier, the values of the children games and toys were determined vide Valuation Ruling No.871/2016 issued on June 20, 2016. Revision petitions were Uiled under Section 25D of the Customs Act, 1969, before the Director Gen-

eral of Customs Valuation, Karachi

by M/s NT Computers and others, which were disposed of vide Orderin-Revision No.236/2016 DG(V)Val.Rev./839/2016/9300 issued on August 18, 2016. The Director General had ordered the ofUicials concerned to conduct fresh inquiries and issue separate Valuation Rulings for children games and toys. Therefore, this Directorate General initiated an exercise for the determination of customs values of children games. The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has also revised the customs value of switches and sockets through Valuation Ruling No 993/2016. Earlier, the customs values of switches and

sockets were determined under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969, vide Valuation Ruling No.652/2014 issued on March 27, 2014. The Valuation Ruling required revision in line with the prevailing prices in the international market. Therefore, this Directorate General initiated an exercise for determination of customs values of switches and sockets.

The valuation methods given in Section 25 of the Customs Act, 1969 were followed to arrive at the customs values of switches and sockets.

Transaction value method provided in Section 25 (1) was found inapplicable owing A6\4, vide variation in the values being declared to the customs. Identical / similar goods value

methods provided in Section 25 (5) & (6) were examined for applicability to the valuation issue in the instant case which provided some reference values of the subject goods but the nine could not be exclusively relied upon it due to variations in declared values of the subject goods.

Meanwhile, The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has revised the customs value of circuit breakers through Valuation Ruling No 994/2016 under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969.

Customs values of circuit breakers were determined under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969, vide Valuation Ruling No.652/2014, dated 27-03-2014.

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Norway revs electric cars to 100,000 units Saturday December 24, 2016

World

OSLO: Norway, which boasts the world’s highest number of electric cars per capita, now has 100,000 such vehicles on the road, a trade body said on Tuesday.

The clean cars are already saving the Nordic country some 200,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year, and the plan is to boost their number to 400,000 over the next three years, the Electric Vehicle Association said.

Generous state-funded measures, including tax breaks, free city tolls and free parking, have catapulted Norway to the top of the electric car league.

With a population of 5.2 million, Norway has a total of 19 electric cars for every 1,000 inhabitants, with electric vehicles making up for almost 20 percent of new car registrations.

gardai seizes cannabis worth €2.8m in cavan drugs

DUBLIN

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ardai seized cannabis worth €2.8 million today in an joint investigation which included the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau and Revenue’s Customs Service.

Qatar plans to invest $10b in uS infrastructure he Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has notified the U.S. of its plans to invest $10 billion in U.S. infrastructure programs, according to Reuters. The announcement follows on the heels of the wealth fund’s previous statements that it would finance $35 billion worth of projects in the U.S. between 2016 and 2021. QIA officials did not say whether the $10 billion is part of that figure. The investment also could have political implications, as some Arab states are wary of a potential shift in the Middle East balance of power toward Iran if the U.S. begins a withdrawal from the region under a Trump administration, according to Reuters. The $10 billion is seen by some as a way for Qatar to strengthen its relationship with the U.S. and to help maintain a US presence in the Gulf. —CB Report

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A massive 143 kilos of herbal cannabis was found in Co Cavan and a 36-year-old man and a 50year-old woman were arrested in the ‘intelligence led’ drugsbust.The pair are being detained at Ballyconnell Garda Station under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 2006.

As part of a follow-up operation, a 46-year-old man was also arrested and detained at Cavan Garda Station

under the same act and in connection with the same offence.

A Garda spokesman said the focus of the investigation was to target “individuals involved in the trafUicking, sale and supply of illicit drugs”.

Meanwhile, The Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Revenue ofUicers have seized 13 puppies, alcohol and thousands of euro in cash in three separate operations. An operation at Dublin Port over the weekend saw 13 puppies of various breeds seized in four seperate raids. OfUicers said they were all in being transported to the UK without the proper documentation or vaccination records. Last Wednesday, Revenue ofUicers from Dublin Port seized alcohol from a restaurant on the southide of Dublin city centre, which was trading without a liquor licence. OfUicers removed beer, wine and spirits with an estimated value of more than €7,500. Revenue ofUicers at Rosslare Port seized €9,400 in cash on Tuesday,

pakistani, Afghan transporters observe wheel-jam strike against tax collection

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he transporters from Pakistan and Afghanistan on Tuesday observed wheel-jam strike against the tax collection by Pakistan and Afghan border authorities at Torkham border. Hundreds of loaded and empty trucks were parked on both sides of the Torkham border to protest the tax collection from the trucks entering Afghanistan.Afghan Transporters Union President Tila Muhammad told The News that Afghan border

authorities charged Rs10,000 from each truck entering Afghanistan.

Sources said one transporter was killed and three others wounded in Dakah area of Afghanistan when Afghan police opened indiscriminate Uire on the protesters. The sources said the Afghan border police forced the protesters to disperse and end call off protest. Terming the tax collection unfair, Tila Muhammad maintained that personnel of the Frontier Corps.—CB Report

customs seizes fuel oil, tankers in Bataan port MANILA

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he Bureau of Customs on Monday announced the seizure of 45,000 metric tons of misdeclared fuel oil worth P700 million loaded in foreign oil tankers M/T Alpine Magnolia and M/T Malolos docked at the vicinity of Harbor Bulk Terminal here.

Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon said the fuel oil was declared as industrial oil on board the oil tankers with Marshall island/Majuro Registry that arrived last December 14 after a two-day voyage from Singapore. Both the cargo and carriers were seized on Saturday through a warrant of seizure and detention issued by District Collector Julius Premediles of the Port of Limay. It was considered to be the biggest haul for the BOC during the last six months.

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“The oil shipment was fraudulently imported without the required Port Load Survey Report and with inconsistencies in documentation,” Faeldon said. Zaldy Almoraide, deputy district collector for operations in Limay Port, said the oil tanker is docked along Manila Bay in Barangay Kitang Dos, Limay town under the custody of the Port of Limay. Newly appointed Deputy Customs Commissioner Edward James Dy Buco said the M/T Alpine Magnolia and the M/T Malolos that were carrying the smuggled fuel were also seized. “In the afternoon of December 15, 2016, M/T Malolos was seen to have shipsided with M/T Alpine Magnolia and discharging of fuel started. This was done without lodgment or filing of entry. No duties and taxes were paid. This is pure smuggling in violation of Customs laws and regulations,” Buco who heads the BOC’s Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group, added.

Taiwan gDp to grow 1.6% in 2017

aiwan’s gross domestic product (GDP) will grow 1.6 per cent next year, up from an estimated 1.1 per cent growth in 2016, on the back of rising global demand, Standard Chartered Bank forecasted. The bank revised its forecast upwards from a previous projection of 1.4 per cent growth in August because of the recovering global economy. The bank also raised its forecast for Taiwan’s GDP growth forecast for 2016 from 0.7 per cent previously. But despite the slight improvement in growth next year, it will not be strong enough to get Taiwan’s central bank to tighten its monetary policy, Standard

Chartered Bank economist said. The economist expected the central bank to leave key interest rates unchanged at its upcoming quarterly policymaking meeting later this month and throughout 2017. He said the bank raised its forecasts for the GDP growth in 2016 and 2017 because economic data released recently, such as for exports and industrial production, signalled a faster pace of growth in the future. Taiwan’s exports grew 12.1 per cent in November from a year earlier to US$25.34 billion, the highest year-on-year growth in 46 months, government data showed.—CB Report

5,635 cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes seized

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hat were registered as decorative items and picture frames turned out to be cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes. Singapore Customs said in a press release on Saturday (Dec 10) that ofUicials were keeping a close watch

as a shipment imported from Chinadeclared as decorative items – was delivered to a self-storage facility. As ofUicials swooped in on the self-storage facility located in the north-eastern part of Singapore on Dec 7, they discovered 3,438 cartons of duty-unpaid cigarettes that were hidden in 79 boxes of picture frames. A second raid in the same facility recovered another 2,197 cartons of duty-un-

paid cigarettes. The total amount of duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) involved amounted to about $437,280, and $44,020 respectively.

Buying, selling, conveying, delivering, storing, keeping, having in possession or dealing with duty-unpaid goods are serious offences under the Customs Act and the GST Act. Meanwhile, The duty-unpaid cigarettes were seized at a self-storage facility

in the north-east of Singapore on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016. (Singapore Customs via AP /-) Singapore Customs seized 5,635 cartons of dutyunpaid cigarettes from a self-storage facility in the north-east of the country on Wednesday. The total amount of unpaid duty and goods and services taxes amounted to about US$437,280 and $44,020 respectively.

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Sindh Excise collects over Rs 16b tax in four months KARACHI: The Sindh Excise and Taxation Department has collected Rs 16,042 million in four months (July-October) of the current financial year (2016-17). This was revealed by Sindh Minister for Excise and Taxation and Narcotics Control Mukesh Kumar Chawla while presiding over a departmental meeting here in his office. E&T Secretary Dr Mansoor Abbas Rizvi and Director General Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui also attended the meeting. The tax recovery was made in various heads that was Rs 2,518 million more as compared to the corresponding period of previous financial year. While briefing the meeting, Shoaib Siddiqui said that the department had collected Rs 1,712.239 million in term of motor vehicle tax, Rs 11,875.857 million as infrastructure cess Rs 179 million.

Shc dismisses petition filed by kiran Enterprises

Saturday December 24, 2016

National

customs seizes smuggled goods worth Rs60.02m in 12 days

ASo impounds smuggled jeeps from mughalpura Dry port LAHORE

KARACHI

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he Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday dismissed a constitutional petition filed by M/s Kiran Enterprises, seeking restoration of its sale tax registration which was suspended by the customs authorities. A two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, was hearing the petition. During the hearing, no one appeared before the court from the petitioner’s side, therefore, the court dismissed the petition and observed in its order that, “the petitioner and his counsel are called absent, no intimation is received, instant petition is pending since 2014, wherein the petitioner has expressed his seriousness against suspension or registration of sale tax, record shows that no interim relief has been granted to the petitioner related to the impugned action by the respondents, whereas the petitioner and his counsel have not reminded vigilant to proceed with the matter as listed petition has been taken up for hearing after a lapse of more than one year.

he Customs Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) has impounded two smuggled jeeps during a raid at Mughalpura Dry Port, sources told Customs Today here on Thursday. The sources said that on information, ASO Asistant Collector Asim Awan constituted a team led by Superintendent Waqar Cheema and the team taking timely legal action confiscated the jeeps. The clearance documents of the jeeps were not available. The customs authorities were informed that the two jeeps were brought to Mughalpura Dry Port either on train or by road. The sources said that the jeeps were carrying number plates of Balochistan and it is yet to be determined either these plates are fake or original. The authorities have sent the jeeps to the forensic laboratory for test after registering a case of smuggling.

Sources said that as first half of current fiscal year is going to end customs authorities enhanced their efforts to collect more revenue. Meanwhile, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation has transferred three officials to the Collectorate of Customs Preventive.

The sources said that the transferred officials are Superintendent Yasin Malik, Inspector Mansoor Ellahi and Sepoy Naseer.

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customs court adjourns hearing of Rs209m tax evasion he Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and Anti-Smuggling has adjourned the hearing of case filed against accused Tashreef Javed who was arrested in huge tax evasion of Rs209 million. Sources told Customs Today that Tashreef Javed son of Khadim Hussain who is Director of M/s Hussain Cane Private Limited was arrested by the customs authorities due to his involvement in tax evasion. Other accused persons includes Ikram ul Haq son of Muhammad Sharif Bhatti, Ihtisham ul Haq son of Muhammad Sharif Bhatti, Muhammad Saeed son of Muhammad Alim Malik owners of M/s Imran International who were also booked by the authorities in same case.—M Imran Mehar

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irectorate General Customs Intelligence and Investigation Federal Board of Revenue has seized and impound miscellaneous goods including non duty paid smuggled and offending vehicles, foreign origin cloth, diesel, tyres tubes and other different things total amounting to Rs60.02 million in country wide operation against

smuggling from 1st to 12th December 2016.

Additional Director Customs Intelligence Abdul Waheed Marwat told Customs Today that we are working on new strategy against smuggling and hope this may be launch from 1st January 2017.

New strategy will prove helpful and effective to control illegal trade and smuggling. He said that during the first 12 days of current month (December) we impound t11 non duty paid cars worth Rs16.8 million under the section 16 of the Customs Act and seized

the eight offending vehicles, which was being used in smuggling activities worth Rs15.55 million under section 157 of Customs Act. He said that Customs Intelligence authorities also seized 1,17,760 liters of Iranian diesel worth Rs7 million and 122 numbers of non duty paid tyres and tubes worth Rs0.35 million.

Customs I&I has also seized the huge quantity of foreign Origin cloth 14,260,yards worth 6.7 million during the 12 days and the miscellaneous things perfumes ,deodorant etc worth Rs13.6 million.

Senate body for stern action against drug suppliers in QAu

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ISLAMABAD

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he Senate Standing Committee on Interior has directed the Anti Narcotics Force (ANF) and the police take action against drug supply within the premises of Quaid-e-Azam University.

The committee that met under the chair of Senator Rehman Malik also asked the Secretary Interior to help the police and ANF in launching this operation. The committee

is already hearing the matter of excessive use of drugs in the educational institutions of Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) following a report of a non-government organization (NGO) in this connection.

However, the government has refuted this claim.

The direction of the committee came after Dean Quaid-e-Azam University Dr Waseem Ahmed informed the meeting that every kind of drug was being supplied in the campuses.

He said that the students used intoxicant tablets of Lahore made hav-

ing price range of Rs5,000 to Rs15,000 besides liquor, hashish and heroine. The dean further said that disciplinary committee of the university had Uined some students and the police had been informed to take action. “The reason behind

the continuous supply of drugs in the campuses is due to the absence of any boundary wall around the university,” he said. Dr Waseem requested the committee that a police picket should be established within the university premises to stop supply of drugs there.

The chairman directed that the cameras of Safe City Project should also be installed within the university premises and also asked Islamabad Mayor Sheikh Ansar Aziz to Uinancially support the university for building up the boundary wall.

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FIA arrests passenger making attempt to fly for Spain of fake visa Saturday December 24, 2016

Lahore

LAHORE: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has foiled an attempt of using fake visa and other documents to fly for Spain at Lahore airport.

According to spokes person of Federal Investigation Agency, on Wednesday a passenger who is a resident of Mandi Bahauddin was travelling for Spain but he was caught by immigration staff of FIA when checked at airport.

He was travelling on private airline QR 21.

The anti human trafficking cell has arrested the accused Farooq Ahmad and shifted him to unknown place for further investigation and prosecution.

customs Appellate Tribunal orders to release truck to owner LAHORE

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ustoms Appellate Tribunal modiUied impugned order and also passed order to release seized truck to lawful owner unconditionally in a case of Mali Khan against collector Adjudication Faisalabad and deputy director Intelligence and Investigation Multan.

Member Judicial bench-II Omer Arshad Hakeem said in the Uinal remarks that after hearing the case no evidence was provided to prove that Mali Khan was involved in the impugned offense. Section 157 of the Customs Act 1969 cannot apply in absolute terms as the owner of vehicle cannot be panelized unless the adequate proof of his involvement is proved.

According to the precise fact, the staff

customs Appraisement t o hold auction of vehicles he Customs Appraisement is going to hold auction of impounded vehicles, spare parts and other goods confiscated in different actions. Customs sources told Customs Today that seized items including impounded cars, spare parts, CCTV cameras, spare parts, wood, fabrics, floating glass, ball bearings, wires, polypropylene, printed sheets, shoes, iron and other goods will be presented for the auction on ‘as it is where it is’ basis. Interested parties and persons have already checked the goods to participate in auction. Customs auctioneer has issued directions that any person who wants to participate in auction of vehicles and other goods should bring his national identity card on the day of auction. The National Tax Number is also mandatory to participate in the auction.—M Imran Mehar

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of customs Intelligence and Investigation-FBR, Multan intercepted truck loaded with heavy mechanical pipe, on demand, driver produce only bilty number but failed to provide other legal documents regarding lawful importer, the goods released by Makkah Computerizing Weighbridge was seized under the law. After issued show case notice, adjudication authority proceeded case and passed the order to conUiscate goods under section 157 (2) of Customs Act 1969.

Being aggrieved from the order the appellant Uiled the case before the Customs Appellate Tribunal on the grounds that the impugned order is passed without applying the judicial mind. Appellant further said in the arguments that driver of the conUiscate truck had not authorized to check the legality of loaded goods, the appellant’s vehicle is a public transport and has never been previously involved in any such incident.

Rs 19883,164 duty, tax evasion by m/s BA Traders unearthed

LAHORE

m hAYAT

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irectorate of Customs Post Clarence Audit (PCA) has detected Rs19883,164 tax

DgTR initiates specialized training programme for customs sepoys

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t was a significant event in the history of Pakistan Customs, when as many as 113 newly recruited sepoys from multiple directorates and collectorates of the Customs Central Region joined the two months specialized training programme at Lahore. The training was arranged by Directorate General of Training and Research, Lahore in collaboration with the Civil Defence Training School. It is exclusively designed for the customs sepoys by DGTR (Customs) Karachi

and is duly approved by the board.

The sepoys will be taught customs law, rules, procedures etc. in addition to other relevant modules. An opening ceremony of the training took place at Civil Defence Training School, Lahore on December 14, 2016. Chief Collector Sumaira Nazir, was the chief guest, while Appeals Collector Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah, Appraisement Collector Mohammad Sadiq, Preventive Collector Zulfiqar Younas, Commandant Civil Defence.—M Hayat

evasion by M/s BA Traders Lahore on account of inadmissible exemption of SRO 567 (I) 2006 and SRO 1007 (1)/ 2005.

According to details, the Directorate of Post Clearance Audit Lahore observed that certain importers having their principal activity of manufacturer of pesticide

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and other agro chemicals are involved in the evasion of duties and tax during customs clearance of zinc sulphate 33 percent which are classiUied under PCT heading 2833, 2940 by availing irregular exemption of customs duty under S.No. 4 of SRO567 (1)/2006 and exemption of sales tax S. No. 5 of table -II of SRO 1007 (I) 2005. The PCA observed that the said SROs were meant for poultry ingredients only.

It was observed that BA Traders, Lahore has imported consignment of the aforesaid impugned goods which were prima facie are fertilizers and as such not entitled for the exemption of customs duty and sales tax under the said SROs during calendar year 2014. The PCA said that the mis-declaration resulted in the duty and taxes evasion to the tune of Rs19883,164 and added that it is directed that the above mentioned short paid amount of duty and taxes may be deposited positively.

customs court adjourns hearing of 16 cases

he Customs Court on Wednesday adjourned hearing of 16 cases related to customs matters. During the hearing of most cases, the counsels for the accused requested the court to postpone the hearing of their respective cases for preparation of arguments on that the court adjourned the hearings for different dates. According to the cause list, three out of 16 cases were fixed for formal hearing of accused namely shehzad, Abdullah and Tariq Fatmi and others. Pre arrest bail was also scheduled for Friday that the court has also adjourned

for next hearing. The court also adjourned cases of narcotics, tax evasion, smuggling and customs matters. All cases from Faisalabad, Lahore, Gujranwala and Multan scheduled for hearing on Friday. Meanwhile, The Customs Court on Friday adjourned the hearing of 17 cases related to customs matters. During the hearing of the cases, the counsels for the accused requested the court to postpone the hearing of their respective cases for preparation of arguments on which the court adjourned the hearings for different dates. —M Imran Mehar

nAB to initiates two references against corrupt govt officials

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LAHORE

m ImRAn mEhAR

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he National Accountability Bureau has decided to Uile reference against two accused allegedly involved in corruption and embezzlement. According to sources yhe Executive Board Meeting (EBM) decided to Uile two cor-

ruption references. First corruption reference was decided to be Uiled against Zia Pervaz Hussain and others. In this case, the accused persons were alleged for obtaining award of contract of Uive Helicopters from Cabinet Division through bogus Uirms M/s Cuxhaven of Denmark and misappropriated a sum of US $ 2.168 million. Second corruption reference was decided to Uile

against Raja Muhammad Ikram-ulHaq, Ex-Secretary/DG Pakistan Post OfUice Department and others. In this case, the accused persons were alleged for corruption and corrupt practices, fraud in housing scheme at Kurri Road, Islamabad and violation of PPRA rules in award of contract to M/s Telconet. Thus caused a loss of Rs. 100 million to the national exchequer.

The Executive Board Meeting (EBM) decided to authorize three (3) investigations. First investigation was authorized against Iftikhar Qaimkhani, Ex-EDO, Karachi Development Authority (KDA) and others. In this case, the accused persons were alleged for misuse of authority and illegal conversion and amalgamation of street/walkways in Sea Shell Stalls Plots.

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Florida Ports Added 200,000 Jobs Since 2012 TAMPA: Gov. Rick Scott on Tuesday announced that Florida’s 15 seaports have added 200,000 new jobs across the state since 2012. “Our 15 world-class seaports are not only a major economic engine for job creation in Florida, but they also help strengthen Florida’s position as the gateway to Latin America,” said Scott, speaking at Port Tampa Bay. “We are competing in a global economy, but no other state can match the combination of Florida’s transportation infrastructure, business-friendly environment and location.” Scott’s announcement followed a report last week in the Tampa Bay Times that said while Florida added the third most private-sector jobs of any state in the country during November.

port of Baltimore named most productive port in uS for 3rd time he most productive port in the United States is in Baltimore.

The Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore received the title Monday for the third consecutive time. The port averages a U.S. leading 71 container movers per hour per berth, according to an independent study conducted by the Journal of Commerce (JOC) for calendar year 2015.

Combining both public and private marine terminals, the port saw 32.4 million tons of international cargo cross its docks last year. The JOC previously awarded the Port of Baltimore the honor for the first six months of 2015 and the entire year of 2014. Meanwhile, The International Transport Forum (ITF) think

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tank has recommended in its Ports Policy Review of Chile report that a new strategy is needed due to dual private and public ports causing “lower maritime and port connectivity”. According to the ITF, improvements will rely upon establishing a national hierarchy of ports, developing a national freight strategy, forbidding the continuation of maritime concessions in the case the concession is not used, and making private ports pay for the infrastructure needed to connect the port with the hinterland. Ports in Chile handling around 200,000 TEU per year regularly receive intercontinental services and the only one without any Asia or Europe services is the Port of Arica. The ITF has advised that all other ports will face Neo-Panamax vessels with dimensions adjusted to the expanded Panama Canal. It has also forecasted that the demand from Asia will bring even larger vessels by 2025.—CB Report

Ports & Shipping

port Tampa Bay welcomes new cruise for 2016-17 TAMPA

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ort Tampa Bay ofUicials welcomed the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade for the 2016-2017 fall/winter cruise season. The 2,402-passenger ship, which replaces the Norwegian Star from last cruise season, will sail a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary departing on Sundays to Cozumel and Costa May, Mexico; Roatan (Bay Islands) Honduras; and Norwegian’s new Caribbean destination experience, Harvest Caye, Belize. In addition, Norwegian Jade will sail two eight-day Western Caribbean holiday sailings this month. Guests will enjoy the holidays under the sun with ports of call in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Santo Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala. Guests sailing on Norwegian Jade will also be able to enjoy further Caribbean adventures with two 10-day and two 11-day Eastern Caribbean cruise from Tampa. Mark-

ing the Uirst time Norwegian has offered sailings longer than one week to the Caribbean from Tampa, Norwegian Jade’s 10-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary departing January 15 and March 19 will visit Key West, Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Norwegian will call in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic for the Uirst time aboard Norwegian Jade’s 11-day Eastern Caribbean itin-

erary departing January 25 and March 29. Additional ports of call include Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands or Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Highlighting the cruise experience is the new private island, Harvest Caye (southern Belize), a 75-acre oasis featuring an expansive pool with swim up bar, cascading waterfall, salt water lagoon for water sports, a restauran.

Saturday December 24, 2016

port may spend $600k to promote new projects series of projects that will transform the shoreline of San Diego Bay could end up costing taxpayers more than $500,000 before a shovel even goes into the ground. San Diegan and taxpayer David Haworth has spent most of his life sailing San Diego’s coastal waters. Now, he makes a living fishing for tuna, swordfish and lobster. His boats are two constants in a sea of change. Haworth docks his boats north of Seaport Village, which the Port of San Diego is eyeing for a $1 billion redevelopment.

“There’s just been some pictures put out of Ferris wheels and spires, and maybe an aquarium, different things like that,” Haworth said. He knows a lot about that project because he’s worried how it will impact where he docks his two boats.

The same can’t be said when it comes to all other projects the Port of San Diego is planning from the Chula Vista Bayfront to the redevelopment of Harbor Island. The Port wants to change that with a public relations blitz. It could spend up to $600,000 over the next three years on local firms to get the messages out.—CB Report

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pilbara ports’Throughput reaches 56.2m tons in nov P

WASHINGTON

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ilbara Ports Authority has delivered a total monthly throughput of 56.2 million tonnes (Mt) for the month of November. This is an increase of 7% from the same month in 2015. The Port of Port Hedland achieved a monthly throughput of 41.5Mt, an increase of 9% from the previous year. Iron ore exports for the month totalled 41.1Mt an increase of 10% from the same month in 2015.

Imports totalled 158,000 tonnes, an increase of 28,000 tonnes or 21% from the previous year. The Port of Dampier delivered a total monthly throughput of 14.7Mt, in line with the previous year. Imports totalled 84,000 tonnes, a decrease of 23,000 tonnes or 22% from the previous year. Meanwhile, “The port of Rotterdam authority intends to play a pioneering role and make the port an inspiring

example for the global energy transition,” said Allard Castelein, CEO of the port of Rotterdam authority. The low-lying Netherlands has a target timeline of 30 years to make its economy and society carbon neutral.

Home to one of the world’s largest petrochemical complexes, the Port of Rotterdam is currently responsible for 18 percent of the country’s total carbon dioxide emissions. The city of Rotterdam emits nearly 30 tonnes (33 tons) of carbon per person, about one-third higher than Shanghai and more than six times the global average. Meeting the requirements of the Paris Climate Accord would require a 90 percent reduction in emissions by 2050. “The port area has many companies that use fossil resources to make fuels and countless chemical products. These companies emit a lot of CO2, but also have a lot of knowledge about energy, energy-intensive production processes, and

CO2 reduction,” the port authority said in a statement. The port is actively looking for companies that want to set up operations that will contribute to a reduction in overall carbon emissions. “The largest investments will generally have to be made by the companies themselves, but the port authority will offer support with attractive accommodation conditions, connecting infrastructure, support with permit applications, and Uinding Uinancing.” “When it comes to crucial investments to realize the energy transition, the port authority is also prepared to make its own risk-bearing investments or to participate in companies.” He had “absolutely no idea” what the Uinancial impact would be at this stage. It depended partly on how long State Highway 1 between Ward and Christchurch would be closed. There was no reason why Marlborough’s log trade would be

affected, he said. Nearly 660,000 tonnes of logs were exported through the port in the 2015/2016 Uinancial year. According to the company’s annual report the port’s revenues lifted by 5.5 per cent to $25.85 million on the back of strong log exports. Thirty-Uive cruise ships visited the port that year. A couple of cruise ships were cancelled this season due to weather, but that was nothing to do with the earthquake, McNabb said. Whether ferry travellers would be as willing to drive the long way up to Christchurch to take the Interislander or Bluebridge ferries to the North Island remained to be seen, he said. “Are passengers still going to come? We don’t know,” McNabb told the committee. An Interislander media spokesperson said the company had a larger number of cancellations than usual following the earthquake, but bookings were tracking at 5 per cent above last year.

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Hyderabad ASO seizes non duty paid cigarettes worth Rs2m HYDERABAD: The Customs Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) has seized non duty paid 18 cartons of Pine cigarettes along with Toyota Corolla vehicle worth Rs 2 million during action in Jacobabad Sukkur division. Sources told Customs Today that Additional Collector Rahmatullah Vistro received credible information regarding smuggling of non duty paid cigarettes through a vehicle. After receiving the information the additional collector constituted a team under the supervision of Superintendent Shabbir Phalphuto which also included Inspector Rahib Abro, sepoyes and driver who took part in operation.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

CUSTOMS BULLETIN

peshawar Dry port collects Rs2602.43m from July to november of fY2016-17 PESHAWAR nADIR khAn

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eshawar Dry Port collected Rs.2602.43 million under head of all duty and taxes on imports during Uirst Uive months (July to 30th November 2016-17) of current Uinancial year (FY).

According to details told by sources of Model Customs Collectorate Peshawar that performance of dry port was excellent during the above said period, adding that dry port collected customs duty amounting to Rs.820.31 million while it collected revenue of Rs78.33 million under head different various duty taxes. The sources said that during Uirst Uive month of current Fiscal Year 2016-17 the dry port collected revenue Rs.123.56 millions under head of reduction duty (RD) while dry port collected Rs.1022.20 millions under head of total collection of customs duty. The sources added that during above said period of current Uinancial year the dry port collected amounting Rs.990.86 million under hear of sales tax (ST) as for as the dry port collected revenue amounting Rs.155.13 million under head of ST VM Com_imp. He said that dry port collected revenue of Rs.417.34

million under head of additional income tax (AIT) adding that during above said period the dry port Peshawar collected revenue amounting Rs.7.60 million under head of

federal excise duty (FEDI) on imports. The sources told that during Uirst Uive months of current Uinancial year the Dry Port collected Rs.9.30 million under head of (FEDI of

2.50%) in this way the dry port collected revenue amounting Rs.16.90 million under head of total FEDI. Sources aid that Dry Port Peshawar is showing outstanding performance

under the supervision of Collector MCC Peshawar Qurban Ali Khan with sprit to facilitate the business community working through Peshawar Dry Port.

Sialkot customs collects revenue of Rs 8469.31m during nov SIALKOT

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he Customs Collectorate has collected Rs8469.31 millions in terms of customs import, rebate and export duty during the month of November 2016. Sources told Customs Today that the MCC Sialkot has surpassed the revenue collection target under the head of customs duty as compared with

the collection of corresponding period amounting to Rs 7.533.02 million. Sources said that the Sialkot region had collected Rs 27.65 million as customs import duty during November 2016 which is Rs 3.31 million more than collection of the same period of last year, 2015.

Sources said that the MCC Sialkot collected Rs.8293.1 million as export duty whereas the Collectorate issued cheques of rebate amounting to Rs.18.56 million to exporters.

Sources said that department was striving hard to achieve revenue collection target under all heads for the

running Uiscal year 2016-17. Sources also denied the impression that customs ofUicials received customs duty in advance from importers in order to meet the targets. Sources told the Federal Board 0f Revenue (FBR) has to revise the revenue collection targets sometimes keeping in view the unfavorable circumstances, adding that tax collection was increasing every year due to effective policies of the department. Sources told that the collection of said revenue is much better by MCC Sialkot during Uirst four months of current Uiscal year. Sources told that the staff is doing work to achieve target and the

staff will target rather surpass against assigned by the FBR before the ending of current Uiscal year 2016-17. Sources told that the export and import from Sialkot Dry Port Trust (SDPT) under MCC Sialkot is increasing day by day and it will much better. Sources told that the MCC Sialkot making good name in collection of revenue and achieving target. Sources told that the Collector Customs Ahmed Reza Khan and other ofUicers and taking full interest to achieve target whereas fruitful results are observing. Meanwhile, The Sialkot Dry Port Trust (SDPT) handled 1445,830 tons of

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cargo during the month of November 2016. OfUicial sources told Customs Today that the dry port handled 920,000 tons import and 525,830 tons export cargo during the month of November 2016. The imports items included scrap, leather material, stitching etc whereas footballs, surgical and musical instruments as well as gloves and leather garments were exported during the period of November 2016. According to sources, imports and exports were not up to the mark during the months of September and October whereas the export increased in November 2016.