ISLAMABAD: Former ambassador to World Customs Organisation (WCO), Dr Manzoor Ahmed said that the theme of World Customs Day is very relevant as globalization demands communication. He said that Pakistan Customs should adopt different ways to improve communication.
Pakistan Customs celebrated the International Customs Day at Islamabad Dry Port. Officials of Federal Board of Revenue and Model Customs Collectorate Islamabad were also present on the occasion.
International Customs Day is celebrated every year on 26th January under the aegis of WCO. Its theme for this year was “Communication: Sharing information for better cooperation.”
Dr Manzoor Ahmed argued, “FBR needs to know exactly the indicators useful for trade and for this it has to compile information. An important thing to be taken into notice is that SROs should not be issued frequently. Whatever SROs are issued should be notified after complete homework.” He admired the working of customs officials and emphasized that in addition to smooth and effective working, monitoring is also a compulsory thing.
Collector of Islamabad Imtiaz Ahmad Warraich said that communication is the key for better coordination. Pakistan Customs and FBR have to improve communication which will ultimately improve the working of FBR, he added. He said that Pakistan Customs has to cooperate with international customs community for effective information sharing which is the tool for accomplishing the goals and enhancing customs network. It is very much useful in enforcement too. “The cooperation through information sharing is very important for Customs Department,” he commented. “I am very happy to say that Pakistan Customs has implemented WeBOC system to perform customs related functions more effectively and it is indeed playing a vital role in the country’s economy by facilitating trade,” he said.
Director Post Clearance and Audit Ameer Mohammad Khan Marwat said that this day shows that all over the world the customs community faces similar issues and problems. He appreciated the fact that Pakistan Customs contributes 34 percent of the total annually collected revenue “which is remarkable.” He also praised the WeBOC system introduced by Pakistan Customs. “It is an indigenous mechanism for automation of system,” he said, adding “we have to facilitate trade with post clearance control and also stick to the targets set by FBR.”
After formal addresses, International Customs Day celebrations proceeded with destruction of 37.92 kg of heroin, 200 foreign origin liquor bottles and other contrabands at Islamabad Dry Port.
The best performance award for customs clearing agents was given to New Ehsan Enterprises. Ehsanullah, owner of the leading enterprise, said, “I am grateful to the Collectorate to realize the efforts of customs agents on this special occasion.” As a team we shall work even harder in future, he added.
