ByKarachi, Pakistan: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced a significant milestone for its Faceless Customs Assessment System (FCAM), with over 4,000 consignments cleared since its launch on December 16th. This system, which operates through a centralized appraising unit, has revolutionized customs operations at Karachi’s South Asia Pakistan Terminal.
Key Achievements:
- Reduced Objections and Physical Examinations: FCAM has dramatically reduced the need for additional documentation and physical examinations. Objections requiring further scrutiny on goods declarations (GDs) have plummeted from nearly 30% to just 2%. Similarly, physical examinations have decreased by 8%, and the need for additional documentation calls has been slashed by 84%.
- Improved Efficiency and Reduced Delays: By streamlining the clearance process, FCAM has significantly reduced delays and improved the efficiency of customs operations.
- Enhanced Revenue Collection: Despite these operational improvements, revenue collection has remained steady, demonstrating that efficiency gains do not necessarily come at the expense of revenue generation.
- Uniform Assessment: FCAM ensures uniform assessment of GDs across all entry points in Pakistan, eliminating regional discrepancies and promoting a level playing field for importers.
Benefits for Trade:
- Reduced Costs: Streamlined procedures and reduced delays translate into lower operational costs for businesses.
- Increased Transparency: The centralized system enhances transparency and reduces the potential for corruption.
- Improved Trade Facilitation: The efficient clearance of goods facilitates trade and supports economic growth.
The FBR’s successful implementation of FCAM highlights the potential of technology-driven solutions to improve government services and enhance efficiency in key sectors.
