KARACHI: Chief Collector of Pakistan Customs (Export), Mohammad Sadiq, reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Customs authorities to bolster trade operations through close collaboration with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).
During an engaging meeting at the KCCI premises, Chief Collector Sadiq emphasized the time-honored partnership between Customs and KCCI, underscoring the shared responsibility of both entities in navigating and resolving the challenges faced by exporters.
“Our engagements with KCCI are centered around mutual growth, not pointing fingers,” Sadiq remarked. “Customs has always recognized that export is the backbone of our economy, and we’ve tirelessly worked to streamline procedures, especially in hubs like Karachi and the upcountry regions.”
The meeting, attended by key figures including Collector of Customs (Export) Irfan Javed, KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, and senior KCCI officials, highlighted ongoing initiatives designed to facilitate exporters. Collector Irfan Javed detailed the establishment of a 24/7 help desk at the Customs Headquarters, complemented by a proactive WhatsApp group that connects Customs officials with exporters for real-time issue resolution.
President KCCI Jawed Bilwani, while appreciating Customs’ recent efforts, stressed the need for a sustainable, export-driven economy. “While remittances play a role, true economic resilience comes from a robust export sector,” Bilwani noted. He urged Customs to continue eliminating unnecessary barriers and ensure accountability without blanket penalization.
Bilwani highlighted operational issues such as excessive port charges, delays in examination processes, and challenges with perishable goods logistics. He praised the swift coordination facilitated by Customs and KCCI through the WhatsApp group, calling it a “game-changer” for exporters.
Specific concerns were raised about sudden post-clearance inspections that disrupt shipment schedules, with Bilwani urging Customs to address these inconsistencies to restore exporters’ confidence. He also shed light on sector-specific challenges, including the exclusion of the iron and steel sector from key facilitation schemes.
The dialogue concluded with both Customs and KCCI pledging to further strengthen their collaboration, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and collective problem-solving to fortify Pakistan’s export landscape.
