ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has empowered customs officials to reexamine cargo — even after it has been cleared from customs stations.
This latest step aims to clamp down on smuggling, under-invoicing, and other evasive trade practices.
Yes, you read that right. Even if your goods have already passed customs clearance, FBR’s new rule means they can still be rechecked — anytime, anywhere. The customs net just got a whole lot tighter.
The FBR issued Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 1156(I)/2025, amending the earlier SRO 1637(I)/2024. This amendment officially authorizes the customs department to reassign examination and assessment duties to either the Central Appraising Unit (CAU) under Faceless Customs Assessment or the Centralised Examination Unit (CEU) based in Karachi.
What does this mean in practice? Whether your cargo is at an airport, dry port, or already en route after clearance — customs officers can now intercept and inspect it based on credible intelligence. This surprise check mechanism marks a major shift in customs operations and keeps traders on their toes.
To streamline the process and enhance transparency, the FBR had earlier launched the Centralised Customs Examination system through the CEU in Karachi. This unit ensures that all import consignments are examined the same day they arrive — removing delays while maintaining oversight.
Meanwhile, the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) continues to revolutionize how assessments are carried out. By digitizing and centralizing the process, FBR aims to eliminate human discretion, reduce workload imbalances among customs appraising officers, and promote fair, speedy evaluations.
With customs being mentioned more than ever, it’s clear that the FBR is stepping up its monitoring game. From airport warehouses to inland checkpoints, the customs force now has the authority — and the tools — to ensure no consignment escapes scrutiny.
Traders and logistics providers should brace for a new era of enforcement. FBR’s message is loud and clear: cleared goods no longer mean “off the radar.”
