ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s tax authority has taken a major step toward modernizing cargo monitoring with the launch of a new digital tracking initiative aimed at improving tax compliance and combating smuggling.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Thursday began the design phase of a National Cargo Tracking System (CTS) along with an integrated electronic transport document mechanism known as e-Bilty. The project aims to digitize cargo monitoring across Pakistan, enhance transparency in goods movement, and strengthen efforts to curb tax evasion.
The initiative was formally launched during a contract-signing ceremony at the FBR headquarters in Islamabad. The project is being financed by the World Bank under the Pakistan Raises Revenue Program (PRRP) and will be led by the National Targeting Center (NTC).
Under the new system, the traditional paper-based transport document—commonly known as a “Bilty”—will be replaced by a centralized electronic transport waybill called e-Bilty. The digital document will carry a unique QR code, allowing customs authorities to quickly verify shipments and distinguish compliant cargo from potentially suspicious consignments.
At present, Pakistan’s cargo movement relies heavily on manual inspections and paper documentation, which often leads to delays, operational bottlenecks, and opportunities for tax evasion. The CTS platform will enable authorities to track commercial cargo in real time from its point of origin to its final destination, improving monitoring and accountability across the supply chain.
Chairman FBR Rashid Mahmood Langrial described the initiative as a key component of the tax authority’s digital transformation strategy. He stated that integrating the new system with existing platforms such as WeBOC, STRIVE, and the Anti-Smuggling Portal will help close loopholes that allow fake invoicing and misdeclaration of goods, ensuring fair competition and protecting government revenues.
According to FBR officials, the design phase of the project is expected to conclude within the next few months, while full nationwide implementation could take up to three years. The system will incorporate features such as production monitoring, digital invoicing, and cargo tracking to provide end-to-end visibility of legitimate commercial activity while identifying smuggled goods.
Member Customs Operations Syed Shakeel Shah said the new digital framework will also facilitate legitimate trade by reducing the need for physical inspections. Instead, customs officers will rely on risk-based digital monitoring systems, allowing enforcement to shift from traditional roadblocks to smarter, technology-driven oversight.
The consulting firm appointed for the project will study international best practices, assess ICT infrastructure requirements, review the legal framework, and develop a comprehensive system architecture and implementation roadmap. The findings will help pave the way for a modern, nationwide cargo monitoring system designed to strengthen tax enforcement and streamline trade operations in Pakistan.
