KARACHI: The Pakistan Customs Classification Committee has determined that electric and manual breast pumps imported by Spectra Baby Pakistan should be classified as general pumps under tariff headings 8413.8100 and 8413.2000, respectively, rather than as medical devices under heading 9018.9090.
The decision, announced in Public Notice No. 2B dated April 1, follows a prolonged dispute between the importer and the Collectorate of Customs Appraisement. Spectra Baby Pakistan had argued that the breast pumps, used in hospitals like Aga Khan University Hospital, qualify as medical devices due to their specialized design and hospital-grade functionality. The company cited their closed-system technology, which prevents contamination, and their compliance with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan’s standards.
However, the Customs Committee ruled that the pumps fall under Chapter 84 of the Pakistan Customs Tariff, which covers machinery, including pumps, regardless of their application. The committee referenced World Customs Organization (WCO) explanatory notes, which exclude pumps from Chapter 90 (medical devices) unless they are integral to surgical or diagnostic procedures.
“The breast pumps are not used in medical or surgical procedures but are facilitating devices for lactating mothers,” the committee stated. “They are reciprocating or rotary displacement pumps, appropriately classified under heading 8413.”
The ruling overturns a previous decision by the Customs Appellate Tribunal, which had sided with the importer. The Collectorate of Customs plans to file a Supreme Court appeal to uphold the new classification, which could impact import duties and regulatory requirements for similar products.
Spectra Baby Pakistan has not yet commented on whether it will challenge the decision. The ruling applies only to the specific models in question and may be revisited if new evidence emerges.