KARACHI: The Faceless Assessment System (FSA) has led to a significant increase in the volume of transshipment (TP) consignments, with figures rising sharply from 15,335 in November 2024 to 23,187 in January 2025, marking an impressive 50% increase.
Official data indicates that the system’s impact became particularly noticeable during its full enforcement period from December 16, 2024, to January 31, 2025. During this timeframe, 33,960 Goods Declarations (GDs) were processed for TP consignments, a 33% surge compared to the 25,538 consignments recorded in the pre-FSA period, spanning November 1 to December 15, 2024. Lahore stood out as the largest beneficiary, with TP consignments rising from 8,867 in November to 12,265 in December, and further increasing to 13,512 in January a 50% jump.
Other regions also experienced significant growth. Upper and Lower Dir saw a dramatic rise in TP consignments, with figures jumping from just 7 and 6 in November to 207 and 188, respectively, by January 2025. Similarly, Peshawar recorded a remarkable 137% increase, reaching 1,963 consignments in January, while Swat witnessed a 93% rise with 805 consignments during the same period.
Most of these consignments fall within the 11% to 20% customs duty range, showing a consistent pattern in the nature of goods being transported. Authorities attribute the surge in transshipment activity to the FSA’s ability to streamline the clearance process, reducing delays and enhancing transparency in customs assessments, making it easier for consignments to pass through efficiently.
