LAHORE: Implementation of Electronic Import Form (EIF) without proper training and awareness sessions is impeding clearance of import consignments, as the importers are facing problems at different levels.
Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Vice President Nasir Saeed told Customs Today a large number of importers have complained regarding the problems faced by them after the EIF.
On the condition of anonymity an importer said that normal process of import has aggravated to a great extent and import of various products have become difficult with this implementation.
He said that order placed three four months before the implementation of the system are also being treated under the new system which has caused the importers difficulties in importing the consignment in the pipeline.
He also said that before the implementation of the EIF the customs authorities vowed to extend maximum relief to the importers unless the consignments in the pipelines are cleared but no relief is being extended in this regard and importers are feeling perplexed, confused and bewildered.
It may be mentioned here that the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and Pakistan Customs have implemented EIF module in Web Based One Customs (WeBOC), the IT system of Pakistan Customs w.e.f. September 1, 2016.
According to the officials, the SBP and customs jointly launched a series of awareness sessions for importers throughout the country. However, the importers and exporters have claimed that they have landed in trouble waters due to the implementation of the EIF system.
