Finance Minister Ishaq Dar says Pakistan Customs made significant growth in digital innovation
ISLAMABAD: Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar has expressed the hope that the Pakistan Customs and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will continue to follow the path of reforms and modernization.
In his message on the International Customs Day, that will be observed on January 26, the finance minister said that this year’s the customs day heralded the launch of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) year of “Digital Customs “with the slogan “Progressive Engagement”. The “Digital Customs” symbolizes an electronic activity that contributes to the effectiveness, efficiency, and coordination of customs activities.
He said that the governments is cognizant that “Digital Customs” was the way to achieve efficient service delivery, eradicate corruption and secure the revenue of the government through effective controls at the international borders.
It is heartening that Pakistan Customs has made significant progress in digital innovation. Roll out of automated cargo clearance system, Web Based One Customs (WeBOC), across Pakistan has considerably reduced dwell time for cargo clearance and has helped reduce cost of doing business.
Similarly, operationalisation of automated risk management system has improved predictability and transparency in customs operation also at good level, Dar said, adding that establishment of the electronic data interface with Afghanistan and China will further expand our economic ties with our neighbouring countries.
Dar said that “it cannot be overemphasized that the rapid pace of globalization in recent years has reshaped international trade scenario and it demands not only frequent dialogue between jurisdiction, but also nurturing sustainable partnership with the business community.” The connectivity approach prompted customs administrations around the globe to increase collaboration with trade and industry, he added.
“I hope that Pakistan Customs and FBR will continue on the path of reforms and modernization. I would like to extend my felicitations to all the officers and the officials of Pakistan Customs on the International Customs Day,” Dar said.
