Karachi: The Office of the Chief Collector of Customs Appraisement (South) has issued a stern warning to importers, customs agents, and licensed bonded carriers regarding the correct declaration of goods in Goods Declaration for Transshipment Purposes (GD-TP) filed at ports of entry.
The notice, dated March 7, 2025, emphasizes the need for accurate and complete documentation to prevent duty evasion and ensure compliance with customs regulations.
Collector HQ Naveed Ilahi has issued a notice, which mandate that all imported goods must be declared with complete and correct particulars. This includes item-wise descriptions, PCT codes, quantities, quality, weight, and value, supported by necessary documents such as the Import General Manifest (IGM), invoice, and packing list.
The notice highlights that incorrect or incomplete GD-TP filings at Karachi and other ports of entry have been observed as attempts to evade duty and taxes or circumvent import requirements. Such practices not only lead to revenue loss but also hinder the effective application of risk management and risk selectivity criteria in the customs system.
Starting March 15, 2025, all GD-TP declarations filed at Karachi and other ports of entry will be treated as GD declarations made at destination dry ports. Any discrepancies found between the GD-TP and the actual goods at the destination port will result in penal action under relevant sections of the Customs Act, including sections 32 and 32A, or other applicable laws and rules.
The notice has been issued with the approval of the Member of Customs-Operations at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in Islamabad and the concurrence of the Director General of Transit Trade at the Custom House in Karachi. It has been circulated to various high-ranking officials and departments within the FBR and customs administration for necessary action.
This move is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance transparency and compliance in the import process, ensuring that all stakeholders adhere to legal requirements and contribute to the national exchequer. Importers and agents are urged to strictly comply with the regulations to avoid legal repercussions and support the efficient functioning of the customs system.