LAHORE: PIAF Vice Chairman Nasir Hameed Khan said shipping lines and terminal operator including M/s Maersk Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd and M/s QICT are taking illegal demurrage and detention charges from genuine importers, violating the set Customs rules and laws
While talking to Customs Today, he said that the Govt, Shipping Ministry and Customs Department are not properly regulating these shipping companies and terminal operator which are creating hurdles for importers by demanding illegal demurrage and detention charges.
He said that the terminal ports and shipping lines are not allowed to collect any demurrage and detention amounts from the importer when the importer provides ‘delay and detention certificate’ under section 14A of the Customs Act, 1969. Despite this, the port terminals and shipping lines blackmail and harass the importer to collect hundreds of thousands of rupees per single consignment.
He said the nexus of some Customs staff, port terminals like QICT, Port Qasim and shipping lines like Maersk Line along with its agent Maersk Pakistan Private Limited are making illegal money through malpractice. He said these companies are major impediment to smooth business activities in Pakistan as extra detention & demurrage charges add to per unit cost.
He said that the government, FBR and the NAB should take action against Maersk Pakistan and QICT for demanding illegal demurrage and detention charges from genuine importers. The government should also take action against those customs officials who support these companies.
