KARACHI: The Directorate of Post Clearance Audit – Karachi has detected tax evasion to the tune of Rs 13.139 million by M/s Sharif International on import of LED light and LED fiber optic lighting. The PCA has also issued an audit observation under Section 26 and 32 of the Customs Act, 1969.
The PCA, while scrutinizing import data, found that M/s Sharif International, Rawalpindi imported declared to be “LED light, LED fiber optic lighting” through Customs Appraisement West and claimed benefits of Fifth Schedule (Customs Duty) Part I-24, Sixth Schedule (Sales Tax)-15.2-25/06/20 and Income Tax @ 0% CL77 PT-IV 2nd Schedule ITO-10.
According to sources, the exemptions are only available to SMD, LEDs with or without ballast with fittings and fixtures for promotion of the renewable energy technologies as per notification mentioned above. Whereas, clause 77 part-IV Second Schedule of Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 is more restrictive and allows exemption to items with dedicated use of renewable source of energy which includes sources like solar and wind power only.
The examination staff in their examination report has not confirmed that the imported LED Lights are for solar or wind energy use. The information available at website of the supplier shows that the operative / workable voltage of their products is 120 – 277 volts (50/60 Hz) at alternating current. It is evident that the imported items are for general use as these are operative / works under alternating current (AC) of voltage ranges 120-277 volts, which is the normal thermal / hydral power sources normally produced and used in Pakistan. It is an undeniable proof that the imported goods are not meant for to work / operate with the renewable energy sources like Solar Energy or Wind Energy. Because the imported goods operate on alternating current (AC) voltage rather than on direct current (DC) which is used / and operate in the renewable energy technologies. Therefore, the concessions under the claimed notifications are not available to the subject imports.
Therefore, importer M/s Sharif International, Rawalpindi has been instructed to pay the short-paid amount of duties/taxes as earlier as possible.
