Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting on customs reforms, directing authorities to make the inspection and assessment system faceless through modern technology to ensure transparency, efficiency, and fairness.
He emphasised that the modernisation of customs would not only facilitate importers and exporters but also play a key role in boosting national revenue. The Prime Minister stressed reducing the time consumed in administrative procedures and urged all departments to work under a unified strategy for the effective implementation of reforms.
Focus on Transparency and Efficiency
The premier instructed that appeals against customs assessments should be heard by impartial officers to protect business interests and ensure fairness. He further called for structured planning at ports to manage increasing cargo volumes, guaranteeing smooth handling and swift delivery of goods to their destinations.
AI-driven Risk Management System
Officials informed the meeting that work was underway to launch an artificial intelligence-based risk management system to further strengthen customs clearance. The use of AI-powered scanners has already begun reducing the time required for inspections.
The meeting was told that government efforts against smuggling have significantly reduced illegal goods movement, leading to an increase in items processed through the legal customs system.
Government’s Trade Priorities
Highlighting international best practices, Shehbaz said every possible step should be taken to implement feasible global strategies in Pakistan’s customs system. He reiterated that expanding trade and investment through structural reforms remains a top government priority.
Federal ministers, including Muhammad Aurangzeb, Dr. Musaddiq Malik, Attaullah Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, Bilal Azhar Kayani, and senior officials, attended the session.
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