LAHORE: Customs authorities have finally come to know that Terminal Operators have done away with the Federal Board of Revenue instructions of not charging demurrage and detentions for further 15 days amid COVID-19.
Karachi Quaid-e-Azam International Airport Collector Customs Feroze Alam Junejo has directed the Cargo Manager, Shaheen Shed, JIAP, Karachi, the Cargo Manager, Mis Gery’s Dnata Shed, JIAP, Karachi, the Cargo Manager, Royal Shod JIAP, Karachi, the General Manager PIA Shed, JIAP, Karachi and the Cargo Manager, DHL Shed, JIAP, Karachi to implement the further 15 free days extension amid the world pandemic COVID-19.
The collector referred Board’s instruction issued vide letter C.No3(1)E&C2017 dated 31.03.2020 whereby 15 days free period in charging demurrage and detention has been granted in addition to the free time already allowed by the ground handling agents.
He said that a number of importers have approached field formations of FBR, aggrieved that FBR directions are not being followed by Terminal Operators. Board’s letter clearly mentioned the challenges faced in supply chain operations in face of COVID-19.
Therefore, it is directed to comply with the above referred directives that demurrage and detention charges may not be charged from the importers for a period of 15 days in addition to free time already allowed by the ground handling agents, the collector said.
However, this is yet to see weather or not the Terminal Operators pay any heed to the FBR directions and redirection.
