Karachi: Recent changes in the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) have significantly impacted the processing of Goods Declarations (GDs). Following a backlog of 3500 pending GDs, the number of appraisers has increased from 44 to 60, and the Green Channel, previously handling 25% of GDs, is now reportedly processing 50%. However, there remains no clear criteria for assigning GDs to the Green Channel.
The backlog was initially caused by the practice of assigning one GD to an officer at a time, only allowing them to receive a second GD upon completion of the first. This process involved extensive checks of documents, SROs, IPO provisions, PPRO, PSQCA, and Environmental provisions, all of which took considerable time. Nevertheless, recent improvements have reduced the backlog to 1500 GDs, with officers working 12-hour shifts, including Sundays. However, only 50% of officers attended work on Sundays, as appraising officers have the right to a weekly day off and chose not to work on Sundays.
An FCA official stated that the initial goal of eliminating corruption remains unmet, as existing “settings” continue with no significant impact on corruption. The powers of Customs Intelligence have been reduced, and there is strict enforcement in Quetta, Peshawar, and Karachi, leaving no room for misconduct. However, the situation in Lahore is different, with lenient enforcement likely to result in imports being diverted to Lahore for subsequent distribution across the country.
The official also noted that a similar approach failed in 2005 and expressed concern that the authorities are repeating the same mistakes. He emphasized that corruption can only be eradicated through better compensation for customs officers and officials, similar to the State Bank of Pakistan, and suggested providing incentives and rewards to motivate them.