LAHORE: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has introduced stringent new regulations for the grant of customs agents licenses in an effort to bolster compliance and integrity within Pakistan’s customs processes.
The FBR unveiled these changes via SRO 1618 (I)/2024, which outlines draft amendments to the Customs Rules, 2001.
The newly proposed regulations, set to take effect soon, include stricter eligibility criteria, a qualification test, and a performance-based point system designed to maintain high standards for customs agents across the country.
Qualification Test and Eligibility Criteria
Beginning November 1 of each year, the FBR will invite applications for customs agents licenses through advertisements in reputable national newspapers. Prospective applicants must meet specific eligibility conditions outlined by the FBR. One of the core components of the new framework is a mandatory qualification test, which will assess applicants on customs laws, regulations, procedures, computer proficiency, and knowledge of the Customs Computerized System.
The qualification test will be conducted by an accredited institution specified in the FBR’s advertisements. Importantly, applicants must secure a minimum of 50% marks to pass the written examination. Provisional license holders will also be required to sit for the test, with failure to appear or qualify resulting in the cancellation of their provisional licenses.
Point-Based System and Penalties
Under the new rules, the Customs Computerized System will introduce a point-based system to ensure compliance. Licensees will start with a total of 10 points, which can be deducted for infractions such as misdeclaration, false statements, or other violations of customs regulations. If a licensee’s points are reduced to zero, their license will be automatically blocked, and proceedings for revocation or cancellation will begin.
License Blocking and Revocation
In addition to the point-based system, licenses will be blocked and subject to revocation if the following conditions are met:
• A licensee’s aggregate points fall to zero.
• The licensee fails to file any goods declarations within a one-year period.
• The licensee is inactive for an entire financial year, having not submitted any goods declarations.
These measures signal the FBR’s commitment to ensuring that only competent and compliant customs agents are licensed to operate. By raising the bar for qualification and enforcing a system of checks and balances, the FBR aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of Pakistan’s customs processes.
