Karachi: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced pivotal amendments to the Customs Rules, 2001, aimed at refining the process for granting customs agents licenses and enhancing the customs computerized system.
Starting from November 1st each year, the FBR will invite applications for customs agents licenses through advertisements in reputable newspapers. These licenses will be granted through a competitive process. For the first examination under these new rules, the test will be conducted after the hiring of an accredited institution to administer the qualification test.
The qualification test will cover essential areas including customs laws, allied regulations, rules and procedures, computer proficiency, and knowledge of the customs computerized system. Existing provisional license holders must take this first examination. Failure to appear will result in the cancellation of their provisional licenses. There are three attempts allowed, with the provisional license being blocked after the second failure and a final chance provided.
Applicants must achieve at least fifty percent marks in the written examination to be considered for a license. Proof of payment of a renewal fee of ten thousand rupees per year is required for a five-year license renewal.
The amendments also introduce a point scoring system within the customs computerized system. This system will track accurate descriptions, classifications, valuations, origins, and units of measurement over time, based on declarations filed by customs clearing agents. Additionally, a point system for violations such as misdeclaration and false statements by licensees will be implemented, with automatic penalties and possible license revocation if points drop to zero.
Customs agents have expressed concerns regarding these changes. They argue that after the integration of the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) and financial instruments, declarations are beyond their control, and they merely file based on received documents. Custom agent Hassan Shaikh suggested that importers should upload all documents directly to eliminate the agents’ role as mere messengers between importers and customs.
These amendments signify a significant shift in customs regulations, aiming to improve transparency, accuracy, and accountability within the customs processes.