KARACHI: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is signed between Pakistan Customs and the IATA at a local hotel.
Director, Directorate of Reforms and Automation, Customs, Abdul Majid Yousfani signed the MoU on behalf of the Customs while the IATA was represented by its deputy director Ms Nathalie Herbelles. While the Director General, Directorate of Reforms and Automation Customs, FBR, Nasir Masroor Ahmed was the chief guest on the occasion.
Nasir Masroor, the Director General, Directorate of Reforms and Automation, Customs-FBR welcomed the MoU and spoke of the future collaborations between Pakistan Customs and the IATA. He mentioned that the development of this system is the outcome of Pakistan Customs resolve to trade facilitation and modernization.
Nasir further informed that Pakistan Customs is also working closely with China Customs and Afghan Customs for the development of Electronic Data Interface. “This will help generate more revenue and will also curb smuggling and under invoicing”, he added.
Abdul Majid Yousfani, Director, Directorate of Reforms and Automation, Pakistan Customs, elaborated the technical aspects of both Cargo XML and Advance Passenger Information (APC). He mentioned the pilot testing of this program will commence once the development of the software is completed. “The complete roll out of the EDI standards is likely to be completed by end of 2015”, he added.
Ms Nathalie Herbelles highlighted the details of the Cargo XML and API Systems. She congratulated Pakistan Customs for implementing IATA Cargo XML and API Standards.
Earlier, while welcoming the dignitaries, Collector MCC-Preventive Syed Tariq Huda emphasized the commitment of Pakistan Customs to work for the betterment of the country and the community. The development of Cargo XML facility will reduce the dwell time of the cargo imported through air, he added.
“This is return will reduce the cost of doing business. The API system will provide the information of incoming passengers before their arrival. This would forestall risks and enable Pakistan Customs to provide better passenger facilitation to the passengers”, he added.
The event was well attended by leading diplomats, business personalities and senior management of the Pakistan Customs.
