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PAkiSTAn’S fiRST inDEPTh nEwSPAPER On CUSTOMS
26 AbC Certified Vol 75 issue no. 38
weekly weekly
karachi, Tue May 14 - Mon May 20, 2019
Regd. no, MC-1381
ERADiCATing CORRUPTiOn
NAB’s awareness, prevention & enforcement policy against corruption remains successful. | SEE PAgE 12 | RETiRing lOAnS
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Hammad Azhar says $37bn worth of foreign loans would be retired during the next five years. | SEE PAgE 02 | ERADiCATing SMUggling
Sadiqullah Khan says Hyderabad I&I adopted zero tolerance policy against smuggling. | SEE PAgE 06 | SEizing POl
Quetta Collectorate of Customs teams seized 100,000 liters of smuggled POL products during different raids. | SEE PAgE 10 |
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ewly-appointed Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Shabbar Zaidi vowed to end corruption in the revenue authority's tax collections. He devised a mechanism to freeze bank accounts in case of a dispute, directing authorities against freezing accounts without his prior approval and notice to the account holder. In what was his Uirst order in the capacity of the FBR chairman, Zaidi directed all Chief Commissioners Inland Revenue to inform the account holders 24 hours prior to freezing their accounts. "No bank account attachment unless the taxpayer's chief executive ofUicer or principal ofUicer or owner is informed at least 24 hours prior to attachment and the chairman FBR's approval is obtained," said the chairman. The FBR chairman said efforts would be made to bring more and more people into the tax net. He said the tax-to-GDP percentage would be increased and all-possible efforts would be made for
making a taxpayer-friendly FBR, adding that he would utilise the services of present staff of the revenue authority in widening of the tax net. He laid out his priorities, saying he considers “building trust between the state and the taxpayer” as the topmost challenge. “This is done through automation, minimising contact between tax man and taxpayer, and by promoting a voluntary compliance” — these acts that he said will automatically lead to broadening of the tax net. Shabbar Zaidi also emphasized the need to document all the economic transactions which could be great source of revenue generation for the country. Chairman FBR took the FBR ofUicers into conUidence and assured that the issues being confronted by the FBR employees would be addressed under his leadership. Earlier, the PTI government notiUied appointment of Syed Shabbar Zaidi as chairman of the FBR on an "honorary and pro bono basis for a period of two years with immediate effect". As an honorary chairman, he will have full authority to exercise all the powers of the key position but he will not take any salary or privileges. Continued on page 04
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ShC seeks reply on petition filed by M/s haniska Enterprises kARAChi: The Sindh high Court (ShC) directed customs department to strictly act in accordance with law and submit para wise comments on next date of hearing on a constitutional petition filed by M/s haniska Enterprises seeking release of imported toothpaste consignment detained by customs department due to disputed valuation applying Valuation Ruling 848/2016 applying $1.50 as against declared $1.00. A two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi was hearing the matter. During the hearing, counsel for the petitioner stated that officials of the customs department are not following court’s orders therefore court may direct customs officials to follow its orders.
DGI&IZahidKhokhar seeksearlyinstallation ofCCTVcamerasinall statewarehouses
$9.2 billion in foreign loans to be retired this year: hammad Azhar
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irectorate-General Customs Intelligence & Investigation (I&I) Zahid Khokhar has said that there should be a module for registering of seized smuggled goods which enter and exit from SWHs and module should be attached with WeBOC system so in and out of goods could be visible to all relevant agencies. He said that Directorate General of Customs I&I has started audit of Customs Warehouses (SWHs) because there should be a transparent system to know about entry and exit of the foreign origin non-duty paid smuggled or seized goods from state owned warehouses, especially those goods or non-duty paid vehicles possessed by the DG I&I. All said items must be registered in proper system to minimize the human interaction.
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Customs I&I impounds non-duty paid kerosene oil KARACHI
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irectorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&) has seized 245,140 kilogram foreign origin kerosene oil along with six oil tankers cleared in the garb of white spirit. The market value of the seized six consignments is Rs40.56 million. According to sources, Director Wajid Ali received credible information that huge quantity of petroleum products are transported to Karachi. He immediately constituted anti-smuggling squad under the supervision of Superintendent Ismail Shah which enhanced patrolling and detained six oil tankers at Hub River Road. The drivers of the vehicles produced documents showing clearance of Iran origin white spirit from Customs Appraisement Quetta. Letter issued by Superintendent Customs Dry Port (NLC) Quetta was also produced authorizing Hawaldar Muhammad Shafi of Customs Dry Port NLC, Quetta to escort seven vehicles of purported white spirit to Karachi. The seventh vehicle was parked near Wadh, Khuzdar due to fault.
he Uinance ministry has informed the Senate that of the total $88.19 billion in foreign loans, $9.2 billion will be retired this year. During the question hour, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Hammad Azhar said $37 billion worth of foreign loans would be retired during the next Uive years. Giving details, the minister said some $3,256 million under foreign debt and $1,295.21 million interest on loans had been paid back during the current Uiscal year till January 31, 2019. Azhar said, “The previous government, during its Uive-year tenure, had obtained loans on a very short term.” He said the present government was committed to fully discharge the debt obligations of the country to its external creditors and a multi-pronged strategy was being pursued. “The focus is to substantially increase the country’s exports and workers remittances and reduce imports,” he said, expressing hope that this year, the country would receive $22 billion in remittances from overseas Pakistani. The country’s export was also expected to reach $25 billion during the said period, he said, adding that the government was also focusing on enhancing domestic revenues, reducing expenditure to bring down budget deUicit as well as current account deUicit. To another question, the minister said the process to seek member-
ship of Egmont Group was initiated on September 21, 2011 after the approval of the federal cabinet. At present, Onsite Assessment Report (OAR) from FinCEN (FIU of USA) and JAFIC (FIU of Japan) was still awaited which described Uindings of Onsite visit to Pakistan (January 29, 2018 to February 02, 2018), he said. He said the government was vigorously following-up to expedite the process of Egmont Group membership. “After getting membership
Minister of State for Revenue hammad Azhar of Egmont Group, we will also get data,” he added. Azhar also informed the Senate that the inUlation (CPI) in July-March of FY2019, remained at 6.8 per cent which was within the single digit range. The minister pointed out that the increase in the price level was due to rising international oil prices and rupee depreciation. He said the government was cognisant of this challenge and was following prudent expenditure management and contractionary
Customs employees should work with full dedication: Asif Jah C
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hief Collector North Region Asif Mehmood Jah has said that he is proud on retired ofUicers of Customs department who successfully completed 35 years in serving the country. He was addressing a farewell ceremony which was organized in honor of customs superintends who were retired during month of May 2019. The Chief Collector North region who was chief guest on the occasion said, “These Uive retired customs ofUicers are our family members who have now reached on their retirement age after spending a successful tenure of 35 years in Customs department”.
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
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He said the ofUicials and ofUicers of Customs department should work with honesty, adding that ‘we all should keep in mind that this department is our honor and provides us distinction’. He said that an ofUicial could get
retire from his service but old memories live forever with him as well as with the department. He advised the retired ofUicers to make themselves busy after retirement because a busy routine keeps a person Uit physically as well as mentally.
monetary policy to anchor expected rise in inUlation. He said, “To anchor expected rise in inUlation, State Bank has also further raised the policy rate to 10.75 per cent effective from April 1, to compress the aggregate demand in the economy.” He said, “Ramazan Bazaars have been set up in various areas to provide relief to the masses.”To another question, the minister said the preceding year witnessed a growth of 5.22 per cent but broadly it was led by consumption.
Islamabad Customs impounds eight NDP vehicles during April he Customs car cell of MCC Islamabad impounded eight non-duty paid vehicles worth Rs 9.87 millions during month of April FY18-19. According to documents provided to Customs Today, during the month of April, car cell of Customs Collectorate showed outstanding performance and impounded 8 non-duty paid vehicles on secret information of Collector Seema Raza Bokhari. During April Financial Year (FY) 201819, the car cell of Preventive department seized six vehicles. The car cell seized Toyota Passo car bearing registration No. LEB-16-6955, model 2005 worth Rs 0.12 million. The car cell seized Toyota Vitz NDP vehicle registration no: UD-937 ICT, model 2009 worth Rs1.42 million while it seized another Toyota Passo car with registration No.LED-1076, model 2005 worth Rs 0.12 million. —CT Report
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MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
Customs Court approves charge sheet in betel nuts smuggling case kARAChi: The Customs Court approved interim charge sheet against suspects Samiullah son of Muhammad ishaq, ziaduddin son of Roziuddin and najeed Ullah son of Muhammad Yousaf, who were booked in a case of attempting to smuggle non-duty paid 3560 kilograms betel nuts worth Rs707,728. investigation officer submitted interim charge sheet against the above-named suspects and informed the court that on an actionable information, customs officials intercepted one hino Mini Truck bearing registration no: MnO-7288 model 1990 and recovered 106 bags assorted size and weight containing total 3560 kgs foreign origin betel nuts valuing Rs707.728. he submitted that during the search, suspects failed to produce any lawful documents, therefore, goods along with truck were seized and suspects were also arrested.
fiA summons PQA officer, Asad Chandna role in demurrage mega scam case under question KARACHI
ASAD khARAl
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he Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has taken up the issue of illegal demurrage and detention charges taken from importers by terminal operator in connivance with Port Qasim Authority. FIA had summoned PQA ofUicer on 7 May, 2019, to ascertain his role in mega demurrage and detention scam case. According to details, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Corporate Crime Circle Karachi has launched the enquiry of issue of blackmailing and cheating by the terminal in connivance with Port Qasim Authority by issuing a letter to its ofUicer to ensure his personal appearance with all the relevant record of the issue. Customs Today raised the issue and reported intensively about the mega scam of demurrage and detention by the terminal operator and a few shipping companies and now Uinally the FIA has proceeded against the PQA. At least 30 newspapers and TV channels, several chambers and lawyers had also taken up the issue of blackmailing by terminal operators, shipping lines and their agents. SpeciUically Senator Ilyas Bilour, former KCCI President Muffasar Atta Malik, former President Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industries Faiz Muhammad, former President of Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) Zia ul Haq Sarhadi, former President Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Fauzia Inayat, President Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Malik Asrar Ahmad Awan, former President MCCI Khawaja Jalaluddin Roomi, Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Vice President Zeshan Khalil, former President MCCI Khawaja Muhammad Usman, former president Lahore Tax Bar Association (LTBA) Qamar Uz Zaman, senior Advocates Peshawar High Court (PHC) Noor Alam Khan and Mohib Kakakheil also voiced their concern on continuous blackmailing by shipping companies and terminal operators causing huge losses to the importers. Sources said that through this mega scam of demurrage and detention, the terminal at Port Qasim is looting and bleeding the genuine importers of Pakistan and robbing billions of rupees from them annually. Port Qasim Authority is the regulator but is least bothered to check on the illegal activities of the terminal. Experts say that the private company has been allotted the terminal based on the terms and conditions mentioned in the Implementation Agreement (IA) signed between Port Qasim Authority and the private terminal. According to the very basic spirit of the Implementation Agreement, the terminal at Port Qasim is supposed to abide by the law of the land while cannot diverge from the rules laid down under the law. Law under SRO 1220(I)/ 2015 xplains that shipping companies & terminal operators cannot charge any demurrage and detention where speciUically it is not agreed and also speciUically not mentioned on the B/L (Bill of Lading) but this law is grossly being violated by shipping lines and
theiragents. As perCustoms Act, 1969, the port cannot charge any demurrage or detention charges if Customs gives a certiUicate to importer titled ‘Delay and Detention CertiUicate’. But despite this certiUicate,importersgoods’areheldillegally at the terminal and they are charged with heavy demurrage. Moreover, even Customs Rule 442 reads as: “Release of imported goods Customs
they do not release the goods even after release of those goods by the Customs Department. They hold the goods, arm twist and blackmail the owners of the goods and illegally make them pay huge amounts of additional money. The terminal is a private companyand not authorisedunderthelaw to seize goods of importers which they are regularly doing without any fear of
release message will be electronically communicated to the importer, his agent and the Terminal Operator. The goods will be released by the Terminal Operator subject to fulUilling of any condition speciUied by Customs in electronic message to the Terminal Operator.TheTerminalOperatorshallsubmit all collected documents requisitioned throughelectronicmessagetoCustoms at the end of the day.” Contrary to such clear rules mentioned under the law, it isanormalpracticeoftheterminalthat
the law. Port Qasim Authority is a primary regulatorandboundby law to stoptheillegal activitiesoftheterminal operator but the PQA seems to be involvedin the mega scam and hence it has not taken any action even after coverage of the issue in the past many months. Questions are being raised on thepersonalinvolvementofPQAchairman Asad RaUi Chandna himself in the mega scam due to his inaction on the issue. After so much exposure by the media,whyhehasnottakenanyaction
against all those accused in the scam? Whydidhenotensureimplementation of the agreement? Why did he allow the terminaltomakemerrywhile looting the importers? Why did he allow the foreign companies holding the terminal to bulldoze the law of Pakistan? Looking at the scenario, the premier investigating agency FIA had directed Port Qasim Authority for personal presence of its ofUicer with all the relevant record pertaining to the issue on 07 May, 2019. The complaint to the FIA said, “Firstly, customs department delays goods of majority of containers that arrive in red channel. 80% of the goods cleared in red channel take a duration which is more than the free days provided by the port terminals. Hence, the port terminals take huge amounts from the importers on each consignment thus delayed. These shipping lines also force the importers to pay huge illegal sums. All these three: the customs staff, port terminals, shipping lines as mentioned above delay the clearance and delivery of the goods to the importer. Due to this delay, the revenue collection of duty and taxes is slowed down drastically of the actual speed. Like where these goods were to be cleared and delivered in 2 days then it takes an average of 20 days to clear and deliver.” The complaint said, furthermore, under rules 603 (Q), 603 (R), 604 (Q) and 607 (E), others of SRO 1220 (I)/2015, the shipping lines cannot charge any demurrage or detention charges where it is not speciUically written on the B/L. But still in violation of these rules and laws, the shipping lines fearlessly hold the containers of the importers and charge them exorbitant detention charges. These detention charges even exceed the actual cost of container by a whopping 1,000%!
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MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
Customs Preventive recovers foreign currency from passenger at JiAP kARAChi: Collectorate of Customs staff deputed Jinnah international Airport (JiAP) departure lounge foiled a bid to smuggle huge quantity of foreign currency. Sources told Customs Today that on the tip of higher authority the staff beefed up the security and surveillance at the departure of Jinnah international Airport (JiAP) to nab the culprit involve in the heinous crime of smuggling. During the tight surveillance the customs Staff on suspicion intercepted a passenger at the departure of Jinnah international Airport (JiAP) and inquired regarding the travel documents. After collecting the documents the staff thoroughly checked the luggage as well as carried out complete physical checking of the passenger.
hyderabad Customs impounds huge quantity of non-duty paid tyers
Building trust between State & taxpayers from page 01
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heDirectorateGeneralofIntelligence& Investigation(I&I)completedre-examinationofdetainedcontainers clearedbyIslamabadDryPortandfiledtax evasionworthRs1.3millionagainsttheimportersinAdjudicationdepartment. AccordingtobrieffactsprovidedtoCustomsToday,informationwasreceived throughDirector-GeneralZahidKokharthat M/sNasirKhanandBrotherRawalpindiare involvedinevasionofhugeamountofduty andtaxesbymis-declarationinvalueofthe importedoldandusedautopartsunderthe garbofimportedgoods.AccordingtoGD (GoodsDeclaration)No.ICSI-HC-2369and 2370dated16April2019filedbytheimporterthroughM/sIqbal&CoIslamabad, thegoodsweree-blockedatgateoutstage butthere-examinationoftheimported consignmentledtorecoveryof877oldand usedautopartswhichwerefoundinexcess fromconsignmentsonwhichdutyandtaxes werenotpaid.AftercomparisonofvalueassessedbythecustomsstaffwiththevaluationRulingNo.1207dated5thSeptember 2017,itrevealedthatabove-mentioned877 itemswereassessedonlowervalueand shortpaymentofdutyandtaxesbytheimporteri.e.04cylinderpetrolinquantityof19 assessedUS$43perpiecewhilevalueasper rulingwasUS$185perpieceaswellasenginewithgearbox05numberassessedin valueofUS$20perpiecewhileunderthe rulingitwasUS$42perpiece. ThesourcesoftheDGI&Iheadquarters conformedthattheimporterandhisaccompliceshaveknowinglyandwillfully mademis-declarationbeforetheCustoms andcausedlosstotheexchequertothetune ofRs1.346milliononaccountoftheduty andtaxes.Sourcesaddedthatthetheold andusedautopartsmentionedabovewere seizedalongwithcontainersNo.CAIU7200379andHDMU-6519043undersection168ofCustomsAct1969foractionas warrantedunderthelaw.Theevaded amountofdutyandtaxesofRs1.346isrecoverablefromtheimporterandclearing agencyThesourcesconfirmedthatDGI&I submittedseizurereportalongwithrelevant documentationforAdjudicationwhilenoticeshavebeenissuedtoallconcernedunder section171ofCustomsAct.—CTReport
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Collector khalid hussain Jamali
Toyota Hilux Surf, Toyota and a land cruiser and other goods items including cloths, cosmetic and tyers during the month of April 2019 , the team comprising inspectors Abdul
Majeed Barich, Maqbool Ahmed Rind, Haresh Kumar, and other staff in the action. However, an Iranian smuggled diesel is caught by tanker Whose ASO team has begun investigating.
Abdul waheed Marwat to head newly formed Directorate of Cross border Currency Movement D
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irectorate of Intelligence & Investigation Additional Director Abdul Waheed Marwat who is part of team working on anti-money laundering in FATF matters is transferred as Director Operations at newly formed Directorate of Cross Border Currency Movement. Abdul Waheed Marwat is a Customs ofUicer of PCS/BS-19 who is presently working as part of Anti money laundering team on those matters relating with Financial
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
DG I&I detects tax evasion by Nasir Khan & Brothers
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
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he Customs Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) seized huge quantity of smuggled tyers worth millions of rupees during an operation. Sources told Customs Today that following the directions of M Collector Khalid Hussain Jamali, the ASO team conducted various operations in the regions in order to foil the smuggling bids. Sources told that Additional Collector Dr Aamer Nawaz Hamid credible information about smuggling of non-duty paid tyres. He immediately constituted team comprising ASO In-Charge Syed Momin Hussain Shah , Inspectors Muhammad Iqbal Mughal, Maqbool Ahmed Rind, Abid Khan, Tarique Khanzada, Sepoys, Abid, Ayuob, Abdul Razaque, Akbar Solongi, Ramzan Malah, Ahmed , Muhammad Hussain and driver Sher Akbar, Aijaz, Rasheed took part in the operation. The team raided a godown near Sabzi Mandi and recovered huge quantity of smuggled foreign origin used tyers. The ASO team conUiscated the tyers after making seizure report under the prevailing customs laws. Customs ofUicers said the Hyderabad Customs showed excellent performance regarding the anti-smugglings during said period. OfUicials said all possible measures will be taken to curb smugglings in the region as vigilance has also been enhanced. Some other vehicles have also been impounded which include non duty paid vehicle Toyota car,
n May 6, Prime Minister Imran Khan announced appointment of Syed Shabbar Zaidi as chairperson of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) during a conversation with senior media persons in the federal capital. A summary accompanying the notification noted that Dr Ahmad Mujtaba Memon's name was initially discussed by the selection committee for the FBR chairmanship. Subsequently, upon the recommendation of prime minister's adviser on finance, Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Zaidi was considered for the position. Before his appointment as FBR Chairman, Shabbar Zaidi called on Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the country’s economic situation and several other affairs. The meeting that took place at the Prime Minister’s House was also attended by Adviser to PM on Finance Dr Abdul Hafeez Sheikh. Matters related to tax collection and recommendations for the betterment of the tax collection system were discussed in the meeting. The prime minister apprised Zaidi of his vision pertaining to reforms in the country’s revenue authority. Syed Shabbar Zaidi, a member Board of Trustees Karachi Education Initiative, the parent body of KSBL, had served as Minister of Finance in the Sindh Caretaker Govt. Zaidi – a Chartered Accountant by profession and partner, A.F. Ferguson and Co., has a distinguished record of achievements to his credit. He also served as President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) and South Asian Federation of Accountants and former Chairman, Professional Standard and Technical Advisory Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan.
Additional Director Abdul waheed Marwat
Action Task Force (FATF). He will continue working with FATF team in addition to his new duties as Director Operations Directorate of Cross Border Currency Movement which is working under Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Talking with Customs Today, Marwat said that Directorate of Cross Border Currency Movement is newly established Directorate whereas this Directorate will function under Directorate of General Customs Intelligence Islamabad. He noted that the newly established Directorate got mandate of Anti Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risk.
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— Exclusive Customs Today photo
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irectorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Director Saddiqullah Khan said that the Directorate launched the biggest crackdown on illegally imported POL products during 3rd Quarter of current Uinancial year where the Directorate seized 366370 liters of Iranian origin smuggled diesel which could cause huge loss to the national exchequer. Sadiqullal Khan, the Uirst ever Director posted at Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) Hayderabad talking with Customs Today during an exclusive interview said that Directorate has purposed to Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for establishment of new Filed Intelligence Unit at Jacobabad region for controlling illegal activities of smuggled goods and narcotics. The directorate of I&I is performing its duties throughout a vast area while facing shortage of staff, he said and added that presently the Directorate has 20 sepoys who are working under the long jurisdiction of the Directorate of I&I Hyderabad. He notiUied that the Directorate comprises one Range ofUice at Sukkur along with regional ofUice. The Directorate of I&I Hyderabad was established in 2017 but it is now a fully operational Directorate where the small team works round-the-clock to monitor a vast area but efforts are being made to induct more staff to enhance performance and catch notorious elements. Sadiqullah Khan said that the directorate has developed a close working
relationship with Sindh Rangers and “we have conducted joint raids against smuggled goods and narcotics�. He added that I&I Hyderabad is continuing its drive against smuggling while it has seized huge quantity of smuggled foreign origin items worth Rs 147.919 million in 60 seizure cases during 3rd Quarter (Jan to March) of Uinancial year (FY) 2018-19. Telling about the goods seized during third quarter he said that the I&I Hyderabad seized 19 offending vehicles (vehicles used for carrying smuggled goods) worth Rs 37.96 million, 48840 kgs of foreign origin smuggled cloth worth Rs 37.37 million, 366370 liters of Iranian smuggled diesel worth Rs 24.76 million, 51801 packs of Indian origin Gutka worth Rs 21.451 million and 53580 kgs betel nuts worth Rs 10.633 million. He further told that I&I Hyderabad seized smuggled 10 Non Duty Paid (NDP) and tampered vehicles worth Rs 5 million, 379 smuggled tyres worth Rs 4.2 million, Iranian origin smuggled glassware 20810 kgs worth Rs 2.27 million, 18 units of air conditions worth Rs 2.218 million, Iranian origin tiles worth Rs 0.48 million and seized other miscellaneous smuggled goods worth Rs 3.24 million. The Director I&I Hyderabad said that the newly established Directorate also collected revenue worth Rs 18.942 million and deposited the same in the national exchequer. The Director said that the Directorate of I&I is making all-out efforts to curb smuggling and evasion of duty & taxes with modicum resources to monitor the vast area. The Directorate collected Rs 13.380 million by conducting auctions of the conUiscated goods. The staff and ofUicers of Directorate have been directed to exhibit thorough professionalism, dedication and
Uirm resolve to curb the scourge of smuggling, he added. Meanwhile, Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) busted huge quantity of contraband items along with non-customs paid vehicles worth millions of rupees in different raids. According to the details, on the tip off from higher authorities, the staff of I&I conducted successful raids during the month of April which resulted in seizure of Rs 62,874,000. The Customs Intelligence ofUice informed Customs Today that during different raids three non-customs paid luxury vehicles and 133 new heavy vehicles tryes along with nine vehicles used for smuggling purpose were also busted during the raids. At least 150,000 liters Iranian smuggled High speed Diesel (HSD), 205000 packets of Indian origin Gutka, different brands of 36,000, 250 packets of cigarettes were also recovered. Customs Intelligence ofUicer said that ninety foreign liquor bottles, foreign origin shoes, 25,780 kilograms of smuggled betel nuts were also seized during different successful raids. Director Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) regional ofUice Hyderabad Sadiq Ullah Khan has appreciated the efforts of Additional Director Syed Naeem Ullah as well as Deputy Director Shah Faisal Saho for their tremendous work against smugglers. Director Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) regional ofUice Hyderabad Sadiq Ullah Khan has also said that the directorate is working round the clock with other law enforcement agencies to curb the menace of smuggling and soon the region will be made smuggling free.
The Directorate developed a close working relationship with Sindh Rangers and conducted joint raids against smuggled goods and narcotics
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08 EDITORIAL
MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
Founder zulfiqar Ali CEO and Chief Editor Asad kharal editor@customstoday.com.pk For advertising & subscription marketing@customstoday.com.pk www.customstoday.com Phones: 042-35781643-4, Fax: 042-35781645 Address: 627, Siddiq Trade Centre, Gulberg, Lahore
EDiTORiAl
Price hike in Ramazan
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o sooner had the fasting season begun, accompanied by a heatwave in many parts of the country, than the markets saw a price hike in the most essential items almost across the board. From meat and pulses to vegetables and flour, nothing has been spared from this price hike, bringing hardship and grinding suffering to the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable sections of society. And to top it off, the market players are saying that the impact of the recent fuel price hike has yet to be factored in, which means further increases should be expected in food prices. The consumer price index for the month of April may have shown a slight dip from the preceding month, but the outlook on inflation remains on the upside to use the sanitised language of economists — and nothing burns the heart of the poor like inflation does, especially when it comes to food prices. At the same time, one sees disarray in the economic team of the government, adding urgency to the task ahead. The budget is now weeks away and a new chairman of the FBR is yet to be formerly installed, while a new finance adviser is still busy finding his feet and coming to terms with the IMF’s demands. The onset of Ramazan and the approach of the budget now compete for the attention of a lonely and hapless individual at the top, while the poor suffer in the fires of inflation, at least in part due to the negligence and distractedness of the rulers. No word has come of a package of support for the utility stores, for example, where at least the most desperate and vulnerable can find a little refuge from the price hikes that threaten to engulf them. The provincial governments have their role to play here as well, since the federal government has only limited powers to intervene in developments on the ground. Part of the price hike may well be due to macroeconomic trends such as a large increase in fuel prices only days before Ramazan, but what may be equally to blame is the hoarding and profiteering on the part of unscrupulous traders as they see the onset of a demand spiral coming their way. Keeping the markets steady during Ramazan has always been a challenge for governments, both federal and provincial, and usually this has been magnified by the imbalances plaguing the economy. This time round a new element must be included: a government distracted and at war with itself and its peers in the house. The new economic team has no time to waste, nor should it concern itself with the political fires that will be burning around them with more ferocity in the coming days. Its thoughts should be anchored in the welfare of the poor.
Reforming tax system P
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rior to taking oath as the country's Prime Minister Imran Khan consistently maintained that it was the dishonesty of previous administrations that accounted for the appallingly low tax to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio and that his tenure would be marked by Pakistan reaching its potential tax collections. Potential revenue collections as per a recent World Bank publication titled Pakistan Revenue Mobilisation Project, would reach 26 percent of GDP, if tax compliance were to be raised to 75 percent, which is a realistic level of compliance for lower middle income countries. With less than seven weeks remaining for the end of the
current Uiscal year the revenue shortfall has been projected at around 400 to 450 billion rupees for the year which would, as estimated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a recent report, raise the budget deUicit to the unsustainably high 7.2 percent, an estimate based on existing taxes remaining unchanged. Given that the Fund is currently engaged in negotiations with Pakistani authorities, its focus is on reducing the deUicit through raising existing taxes, which would generate immediate results - a rationale that many argue is responsible for the government's recent decision to raise the rates on all petroleum products (excepting petrol which witnessed a 5 percent decline in general sales tax). Subsequent to forming the government at the centre the PTI administration separated
FBR's administration from policymaking conferring the latter to the Finance Division last year; however by the end of the Uirst week of March, the Prime Minister, while addressing the eleventh All Pakistan Chambers President Conference stated "Reforming FBR is essential. Until that is done we will not be able to meet our expenses. But I should also tell you this: if we realise that the FBR cannot be Uixed, we will create a new FBR. This is because Pakistan's survival is linked to it. Be that as it may, there is evidence to suggest that more and more governments are focusing on developing a culture of taxation which is deUined by Pakarang Chuenjit in the Journal of Population and Social Studies volume 22 dated January 2014 as: "a phenomena encompassing the values, expectations, and behaviours which are embedded in the
relationship between taxpayers and tax collectors... The patterns of culture of taxation can be observed and investigated through symbols, signs and the actions of the players in the tax system...previous studies on the culture of taxation have been concerned with taxpayers, especially compliant and non-compliant behaviour, and the determinant that affect these behaviours. Nevertheless, the culture of tax collectors' enforcement has not been studied as much." It is signiUicant that Syed Shabbar Zaidi stated after his appointment was announced that he would try to end the trust deUicit between the taxpayers and the collectors. For him to succeed he must commission a study on Pakistan's tax culture prevalent in different taxes notably income tax as well as sales tax, the two largest revenue generators for the government.
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NATIONAL 09
MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
faisalabad Appraisement collects Rs507.905 million FAISALABAD: Collectorate of Customs Appraisement collected Rs507.905 million during the month of April 2019 against the set target of Rs952 million, surpassing the target by 53 percent. Customs Appraisement collected revenue under the heads of customs duty (CD), sales tax (ST), income tax (IT) and federal excise duty (FED) during the said period. According to the statistics available with Customs Today, the Collectorate collected Rs289.995 million as customs duty against the set target of Rs288 million. The Collectorate surpassed the target set for sales tax by Rs205.758 million as it collected Rs653 million against the set target. It collected Rs12.152 millions in wake of income tax during the said period against the set target of Rs 11 million and surpassed the target by 110 percent.
Multan Customs impounds non-duty paid Hino truck frame from Chowk Maitla
Peshawar Customs collects Rs1326.83 million duty and taxes
MULTAN
PESHAWAR
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ustoms Collectoarte anti-smuggling squad has impounded smuggled Hino truck frame from Chowk Maitla during an action. According to details, After receiving credible information Collector Ambreen Ahmad Tarar directed Assistant Collector Omer Bin Zafar Chatha to take action against smuggled body frames of truck. Assistant Collector Omer Bin Zafar Chatha formed a special team comprising Inspector Muhammad Ramzan Seyal, Inspector Abdul Samad, Inspector Ghulam Asghar and others. The customs anti-smuggling team was alerted and they started patrolling of the suspected routes in order to foil their attempt of smuggling. Customs Anti-Smuggling Organization team intercepted the truck which was loaded with the frames of Hino truck near Chowk Maitla. Customs antismuggling teams asked the driver to produce import documents of the Hino truck frame but he failed to produce any import documents to prove their legal possession. After failure of providing any legal documents Customs staff seized the frame. The value of the seized Hino frame was around Rs4 million and its customs duty was almost Rs2.5 million. Multan Customs has impounded the truck frames under Section 157 (2) of the Customs Act 1969.
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wRiTE TO US YOUR gRiEVAnCES: Through CUSTOMS TODAY platform hElP DESk, now you have chance to DiRECTlY write your problems to top govt. functionaries. If you have any grievances, queries, questions or suggestions, you can write in this section as it provides easiest access to you to approach Customs and Revenue authorities. whO can write in this section? Importers & Exporters, Customs Agents, Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations and Customs Officers TO whOM you can write? Honourable PM, Minister/Secretary for Finance & Revenue, Minister/Secretary for Ports and Shipping, FBR Chairman, Member Customs and Chairperson Senate/National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance & Revenue. Send your letters at: newsdesk@customstoday.com.pk
nADiR khAn/iRfAn bAhADUR www.customstoday.com
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ollectorate of Customs collected Rs1326.83 million in April 2019 surpassing the previous Rs1190.38 million targets of 2018 with difference of Rs136.45 million. As per statistics, under head of customs duty the Collectorate collected Rs462.88 million in April 2019 against Rs412.24 million of April 2018, with a difference of Rs50.64 million or +12.28 percent. Under head of sale tax on import, the House collected Rs420.44 million in April 2019 against Rs371.98 million target of April 2018, with a difference of Rs48.46 million or +13.03 percent. Under head of sales tax levied as federal excise duty on palm oil, the Peshawar customs house collected Rs85.78 million against Rs98.83 million with a difference of minus Rs13.05 million or – 13.20 percent. Under head of sales tax value addition on commercial importers, the Collectorate collected Rs63.11 million against Rs56.71 million of April 2018 with a difference of Rs6.40 million or 7.9 percent. Likewise under head of Federal Excise Duty on import, the house collected Rs14.02 million against Rs19.73 million in April 2018 with a difference of Rs49.71 million or 21.53 percent. Under head of withholding tax, the house collected Rs280.60
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
iMRAn Ali khAn
million in April 2019 against Rs230 million in April 2018 with a difference of Rs 49.71 million with a difference of 21.53 percent. Meanwhile, the Customs House collectively made 13 seizures cases worth Rs 82 million during the month of April of current Uiscal year 2018-19. According to sources, the Directorate I&I with inadequate resources has shown unprecedented performance by establishing 13 cases of seizures worth Rs
Collector Asif Saeed lughmani
82 million during ongoing Uiscal year, which is almost 100 percent higher than the preceding period. During July 2018 to April 2019, the Collectorate has conUiscated nine vehicles involved in smuggling worth Rs20.02 million, around 150,000 liters of smuggled Iranian diesel worth Rs8.05 million, 20,500 pouches of contraband Indian Gutka worth Rs9.69 million, 36,250 packets of foreign origin cigarettes worth Rs8.68 million, 25,780
kilograms of betel nuts worth Rs4.57 million, three non-customs paid vehicles worth Rs2.75 million, 133 pairs of smuggled tyres worth Rs2.17 million, 24,882 pairs of foreign origin footwear worth Rs6.16 million and 90 bottles of liquor worth Rs0.3 million. The MCC Peshawar also impounded opium ice and hashish along with foreign origin cloth, Indian origin vegetables and China made non-duty paid fans.
Single online ST returns filing procedure demanded To,
Mr. Shabbar Zaidi, Chairman FBR, Islamabad Dear Sir,
I congratulate you on assumption of charge as chairman of FBR. I am optimistic that your long experience in the Uield of chartered accountancy and Pakistan’s tax laws would help in resolving economic issues and challenges. The trust deUicit had been widened from last couple of years between the business community and Federal Board of Revenue that impacted harshly on the business environment in the country. I am very much optimistic and hopeful that you will bring immediate reforms in FBR aiming to
acknowledging the taxpayers, broadening the tax net and chasing non-Uilers. The business community wants to supplement government endeavors aimed at economic re-
vival of the country and is also ready to give positive doable suggestion to the Federal Board of Revenue for expansion of tax net. Through friendly approach and
honoring the honest taxpayers, Federal Board of Revenue could collect more revenues than the existing as people would come into the tax net voluntarily, he added. RCCI already submitted recommendations to FBR where it was suggested that the discretionary powers of the inland department should be restricted since it leads to abuse of authority and harassment. It was proposed that a single online integrated sales tax returns Uiling procedure might be introduced for Federal and Provincial Sales Tax declaration in lieu of current separate Uiling requirements for federal and each province. Yours sincerely,
Malik Shahid Saleem, President RCCI, Rawalpindi
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10 NATIONAL
MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
Multan i&i seizes huge quantity of betel nuts near Muzaargarh MUlTAn: Directorate of Customs intelligence and investigation (i&i) seized huge quantity of betel nuts in their action. According to details, Director i&i Asad Raza received credible information from their source that huge quantity of contraband items would be smuggled through their jurisdiction. Director Customs intelligence alerted the Multan Unit of Customs intelligence and directed them to enhance monitoring of suspected routes to foil any bid of smuggling in the region. Customs intelligence formed special team including inspector Muhammad Javed bhatti, inspector Umer, inspector zafar iqbal, Shakeelur-Rehman and others to take action against smuggled goods.
Quetta Customs impounds smuggled diesel & goods worth Rs70 million QUETTA
TARiQ DERYA
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ollectorate of Customs teams deputed at various check posts have seized 1,00,000 liters of smuggled POL products carrying in ambulance and Indian goods loaded in other vehicles worth Rs70 million. Sources told Customs Today that pursuing the secret information shared by Collector Preventive Iftikhar Ahmad the Customs staff intercepted various vehicles on GT Road and Lak Pass check post. Sources further told that on information the Customs staff of Lakpass check post intercepted ambulance and during checking recovered huge quantity of foreign origin smuggled diesel. The staff seized the ambulance and registered case against the possessor of vehicles and smuggled diesel. The sources informed that during other seizures the staff of Customs seized huge quantity of Indian origin smuggled goods comprises Pan Prag, betel nuts, tyres, fabric and smuggled medicine. The customs staff led by assistant collector impounded six vehicles from different location under jurisdiction of MCC Quetta and registered cases against the offender and tax evaders, the total value of above seized goods and vehicles is estimated in worth of Rs.70 million. The sources said that all above seizers were conducted in last 24 hours while Chief Collector ZulUiqar Ali Chaudhary appreciated the crackdown conducted
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
by customs staff of Quetta Collectorate against smugglers and tax evaders and advised them to continue this crackdown against offenders. Meanwhile, Collectorate of Customs team recovered foreign origin goods and offending
Collector Dr. iftikhar Ahmed
vehicles worth Rs20 million from Yaroo and Khuzdar customs check post. Sources told Customs Today that Collector Iftikhar Ahmad received information through his own sources that few smugglers intend to smuggle foreign origin goods in clandes-
tine way. He passed special instructions to Additional Collector Jameel Baloch and Deputy Collector Preventive Asimur Rehman. Pursuing the directions all the check posts were strictly directed to look each and every vehicle thoroughly. A van coming
from border area was signaled to stop at Yaroo check post but the diver of vehicle tried to speed the vehicle while customs staff open Uire on tyres. The driver managed to escape whereas van was taken into custody. After search the staff recovered foreign origin goods including ladies and gents cloth, clutch plates, submersible router car speakers and other miscellaneous goods around Rs 6 million. During same time at Khuzdar Surab check post, customs staff detained two trucks 10 and 6 wheelers coming from Iran border carrying Iranian origins tiles. The drivers managed to escape while both the trucks full of smuggled tiles were taken into custody. The market value of the said goods was around Rs4 million while both vehicles valued at Rs10 million rupees. In both crackdowns, Superintendents Khurshid Hassani Saleem Mandokhail, Inspectors Rehmatulla, Jameel Kakar, Aslam Solungi, Ahmed Nawaz Zehri and others participated. Collector Preventive Dr Iftikhar appreciated efforts of preventive staff. Meanwhile, Collectorate of Customs team with effective coordination of Customs Hyderabad recovered 75,000 liters non-duty paid Iranian High Speed Diesel (HSD) from different petrol pumps established illegally. Sources told Customs Today that Chief Collector ZulUiqar Ali Chaudhary received credible information about some petrol pumps operating illegally and supplying smuggled diesel. He passed on the above said information to Collector Preventive Iftikhar Ahmad and Collector Hyderabad Khalid Jamali.
Faisalabad Customs collects Rs 8164.289 million C
FAISALABAD
nAEEM ShEikh
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ollectorate of Customs collected Rs8164.289 million during July-April of Uiscal year 2019 against the set target of Rs 12531.27 million. Sources told Customs Today that Customs Appraisement collected revenue under the heads of customs duty (CD), sales tax (ST), income tax (IT) and federal excise duty (FED) during the above-said period. According to revenue statistics, the Collectorate collected Rs3362.930 million under the head of customs duty against the set target of Rs3674 million from
July to April. The Collectorate collected Rs4645.796 million under the head of sales tax (ST) during the above-said period against the set target of Rs9733 million. The Collectorate collected Rs155.398 million under the head of income tax (IT) during the above-said period against the assigned target of Rs124 million. The Collectorate collected revenue of Rs 0.165 million against the set target of Rs0.27 million. It is pertinent to mention here that Assistant Collector Ameer Ahmed directed to further expedite the pace of revenue generation for getting more effective results. Meanwhile, the Customs AntiSmuggling Organization (ASO)
seized smuggled goods worth Rs 63 million during the month of April of current Uiscal year 2019. According to monthly seizure report the main seizure items include vehicles, cloth, tyres, tubes Iranian diesel, auto parts and others miscellaneous items and tempered vehicles. The ASO registered more than 17 seizure cases of anti-smuggling during April. Additional Collector Muhammad Saeed Asad said that the numbers of cases were declining due to strict monitoring and timely actions by the ofUicials. As per details, the ASO impounded one non duty paid vehicle worth Rs 20,00,000 and 12 vehicles which were being used for transportation of smuggled items worth Rs35,70,0000 during the said period.
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CARTOONSSPECIAL 11
MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
Peshawar Customs seizes Chinese ceiling fans worth Rs1.3m near kohat Tunnel PEShAwAR: Collectorate of Customs Preventive team posted at kohat seized Chinese origin ceiling fans worth Rs1.3 million near kohat Tunnel. Sources told Customs Today that a vehicleloadedwithChineseoriginceilingfanswasseizedduringaroutinechecking.Thenon-dutypaidgoodsworthRs.1.3millionhavebeenseizedbyCustomsPreventivestaffofkohat Tunnel check post.The Customs Preventivestaff remained on high alert due to direction given by CollectorCustomsPreventive to curb the menaceof smugglingof nDP goods. Smuggling is ruining Pakistan’s economy and Customs Collectorate Preventive khyber Pakhtunkhwa is committed to eliminate the risk of further loss to national exchequer. Collector Customs Preventive Asif Saeed khan lughmani said that unique difficulties should be converted into opportunities to win war against smuggling of non-duty paid goods.
Multan Customs earns Rs1985.941m as petroleum development levy MULTAN
iMRAn Ali khAn
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he Customs Collectorate has collected Rs1985.941 million under the head of petroleum development levy (PDL) during the month of April 2018-19. According to the details, Multan Customs witnessed boost in the collection of petroleum development levy during April 2018-19. Multan Customs collected petroleum development levy from oil marketing Companies on the clearance of ex-bonding of high speed diesel shipments. It is important to mention here that the Collectorate received 97 percent of its revenue collection through the clearance of High Speed Diesel and other petroleum products from the PARCO oil reUinery located in the area of Mehmood Kot. The collectorate collected petroleum development levy of worth Rs985.367 million in the corresponding period of April 201718. Petroleum development levy collection has been boosted in the
Collectorate in last few months due to increase in taxes. Multan Customs collected Petroleum development
levy of worth Rs14015.012 million from the clearance of High Speed Diesel in Uirst ten months of existing
economic year. The Collectorate has observed handsome enhancement in the collection of petroleum
Canadian film“Never Again” to be screened at Int’l Film Festivals
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EVER AGAIN’- a Canadian short Uilm about drug abuse amongsttheyouthwhoareproductsofbrokenfamilies of immigrants in Canada, is being screened at IFFSA – InternationalFilmFestivalofSouthAsia,TorontoinMay,2019. Produced by Sangha Motion Pictures, Uilm NEVER AGAIN depicts mundane realities of life that a single Asia mother faces, whose teenage son gets addicted to drugs due to the peer pressure in Canadian schools. Film revolves around characters of mother and her son. Son undergoes bouts of anxiety when he recalls his father’s abusive behaviour towards his mother during his childhood. He undergoes the treatment but feels insecure about her mother’s liaison with his doctor. Film ends on a good note with young man undergoing metamorphosis and giving up on drugs. Story idea was conceived by Karan Sangha, a Canadian educated actor and screenplay writer. Motivational words of poem “Invictus” written by William Ernest Henley, “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul” kept Nelson Mandela alive in jail and these lines are the central theme of the Uilm. Producer of the Uilm, Dr Jagmohan Sangha who is a well-known writer, poet, Radio and TV host, is very excited about the project. “We are happy to bring out an important social issue of society in ourUilm”. Film hasbeen directed by famous Bollywood director Mazahir Rahim. Besides Dr Jagmohan Sangha, who plays a doctor’s role, Uilm also has Kul Deep who has worked in Uilms, Television and attended workshops of National School of Drama, Delhi playing the mother’s role. Malhar Singh, who is a classical singer in real life plays the young drug addict while Uilm also features director of Punjabi plays, Hira Randhawa, TV anchor Kavita Singh, child artist Parasjeet Ahluwalia and some other Canadian and Indian actors.FilmwasshotinandaroundTorontoandwillbescreened at various Uilm festivals across the globe. — Ahmed Ali
development levy in the Uirst ten months of current Uiscal year due to rise in taxes on High Speed Diesel.
faisalabad Adjudication decides 28 seizure cases worth Rs42.231m FAISALABAD
nAEEM ShEikh
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ustoms Adjudication has decided 28 seizure cases forwarded by Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) and Customs Intelligence and Investigation in their various anti-smuggling activities. Sources told Customs Today that Collector Muhammad Adnan Akram announced judgment in one seizure case involving Rs 23.500 million during the month of April 2019. Whereas Additional Collector Asma Hameed settled 27 different seizure cases in favor of tax department and issued Order in Originals (ONOs) in favour of taxpayers after adjudication process involving duty and taxes of Rs18.731 million. Pendency of the various seizure cases has been increased due to hindrance from respondents in the hearing and unnecessary delay from lawyers in the cases. Almost 54 seizure cases of Rs 955.608 million amount are pending in Customs Adjudication for hearing.
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12
MAY 14 - MAY 20, 2019
fiU Multan impounds huge quantity of almonds MUlTAn: Directorate of Customs intelligence and investigation (i&i) field intelligence Unit (fiU) impounded huge quantity of almonds on suspicion of smuggling. According to details, field intelligence Unit intercepted a hino truck bearing registration no: Tkw-301 near khanewal bypass. The Customs intelligence checked the vehicle and recovered 200 sacks of almonds without shell in their action. The team asked the driver who was identified as Abdul khaliq son of gul Dad to show documents regarding legal import of the items. he provided a bilty receipt to customs staff and informed that said goods were booked from loralai Market and he was asked to transport the said almonds to Jhang. The market value of seized almonds is almost Rs 2 million, weighing 8000 kilograms.
NAB’s awareness, prevention & enforcement policy remains successful ISLAMABAD
ASAD khARAl
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onorable Justice Mr. Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB reviewed latest progress on NAB’s Awareness, Prevention and Enforcement policy on “Our Faith-Corruption Free Pakistan” at NAB headquarters. The Chairman NAB said that NAB is mandated to carry out Awareness and Prevention functions against corruption in pursuance of Section 33C of National Accountability Ordinance (NAO). He said that NAB’s awareness, prevention and enforcement policy on “Our Faith-Corruption Free Pakistan” remained very successful till to date in order to aware people about ill effects of corruption. Under NAB’s Awareness, Prevention and effective Enforcement policy across the country, NAB has been engaging different Governmental, Non-Governmental Organizations, media, Civil Society and other segments of society to join hands with NAB’s awareness and prevention efforts in order to aware people especially students in Universities/Colleges at an early age. He said as per the positive feedback received from various segments of society, NAB’s Awareness and prevention efforts have been effectively highlighted by NAB’s media wing free of cost in print, electronic and social media throughout the country which has appreciated by all segments of society. He said that the present management of NAB has taken various measures to check corruption and to nab corrupt elements, proclaimed offenders and absconders. He said that NAB’s top most priority is to eradicate corruption from Pakistan by using all its
resources. He said that due to NAB’s proactive anti-corruption strategy “Accountability for All” today, NAB has become a vibrant and reputable organization. Reports and Surveys of different reputable national and international organizations like PILDAT, Mishal Pakistan, Transparency International, World Economic Forum and Gallup and Gilani recent survey in which 59 percent people have shown their conUidence on NAB’s performance, testiUies people's conUidence and trust over NAB’s performance across the board as per law. NAB has not only opened its door for citizens related to their corruption related complaints but received not only 44315 complaints which were thoroughly scrutinized in complaints scrutiny committees but on the basis of prima Uicia evidence, 1713 com-
plaints converted into complaint veriUications which were again scrutinized and after obtaining point of view of all concerned, converted into 877 inquiries and subsequently 227 investigations were ungraded. On the basis of across the board accountability, NAB has not only Uiled 600 corruption reference during the tenure of present management of NAB but also recovered Rs. 4300 million from corrupt elements which is record achievement. The recovery made by NAB was then returned to thousands of effectees and some government departments but not a single rupee has been received by any NAB employee as they consider their duty as national service. In order to address problems of business community, NAB has established a separate cell at NAB Headquarters and a Director
has been made head of that cell. He said that NAB has established 60 Prevention Committees throughout the country in order to identify loopholes and suggest ways and means in consultation with concerned departments to ease out their service delivery systems in order to address the problems of people at large which proved very successful in identify loopholes and thus their solutions with consultation. Due to NAB’s efforts and coordination with various public government departments, service delivery especially one window operations of CDA and ICT have been improving gradually. The Chairman NAB said that youth is our future. In order to aware youth about the ill effects of corruption, we have signed Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU), with HEC to students in colleges/universities throughout the country to create awareness against corruption as youths are considered a vanguard in this fight. NAB has emphasized on the character building of youth. The concept of establishment of Character Building Societies (CBS) in colleges and universities remained also very successful and more than 50 thousands Character Building Societies (CBS) in colleges/universities have been established. Honorable Justice Mr. Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB has reiterated his firm resolve to eradicate corruption from country with iron hands for corruption free Pakistan. He hoped that collected efforts of all stakeholders could materialize this dream of corruption free Pakistan into reality.
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LAHORE
M hAYAT
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ntellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan) Chairman Mujeeb Ahmed Khan visited Customs Directorate General of Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement (IPRE). According to the details, on arrival Director General IPRE Dr. Arslan Subuctageen welcomed the
Chairman. He briefed the chairman about Pakistan Customs measures taken to interdict counterfeiting and piracy and termed it a serious threat to national economy and genuine businesses. BrieUing the Chairman, Dr. Arsalan Subuctageen explained in details how effectively Pakistan Customs was dealing to curb the menace of counterfeit and piracy with the help of designated agencies and IPO-Pakistan.
— Exclusive Customs Today photo
Customs working to curb menace of counterfeit and piracy: Dr. Arslan Subuctageen
Dr. Arslan Subuctageen
Published by M S Raza Off# 42, 3rd Flr Gull Plaza M.A Jinnah Road Karachi, Printed by (Ibne Hassan Offset Printing Press, Shops No. 33 to 36 , Hockey Stadium, Karachi).
Mujeeb Ahmed Khan appreciated the performance of Pakistan Customs and assured that IPO-Pakistan would assist Pakistan Customs to curb counterfeit repertoire. He also lauded the performance of Dr. Arsalan Subuctageen to enhance performance of IPO and assured his full support in this regard. He highlighted the legislative improvement to place vibrant and meaningful IP system in Pakistan.