ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Customs has not traced any case regarding import of auto parts in the shape of scrap from Japan for reassembling in the country in the shape of cars.
“Moreover, not a single person involved in such an activity has been detained or fined,” sources told Customs Today after the meeting of Senate Finance and Revenue Committee.
When asked about the legal restrictions regarding import of used auto parts, the sources explained that the import of old and used auto parts (including serviceable auto parts imported as steel scrap) was banned in terms of Sr. No.11, Appendix-C of IPO, 2016. Similarly, import of chassis of used auto motive vehicles cut into pieces whether or not described as steel scrap was also banned for import into the country under Sr.No.10, Appendix-C of IPO.
“In wake of restrictions and with a view to obviate chances of mis-declaration in import of old and used auto parts in the shape of scrap, a special procedure for examination of such goods has been prescribed vide Customs General Order No. 11/2006,” the sources maintained.
In light of the stipulated procedure the source added that consignments of old and used auto parts could only be de-stuffed at specified places of the port and were subject to 100% examination by an officer not below the rank of assistant / Deputy Collector of Customs.
In order to discourage import of old and used auto parts, the source disclosed that contravention cases were made out against all such imports and were forwarded to the adjudicating authorities for adjudication in terms of provisions of SRO 499(1)/2009, whereby a fine of 20% of value of such consignments was imposed in lieu of confiscation which was over and above customs duties, other taxes and penalties imposed under relevant law.
In the light of foregoing, the sources observed that it was evident that the import of old and used auto parts was subject to strict controls and comprehensive procedures due to which no case of vehicles made from old and used imported auto parts had been reported.
It is pertinent to mention here that the issue was on the agenda of the committee meeting but could not be taken up due to special focus of the discussion on Companies Bill 2017.
