The Pakistan Single Window (PSW) initiative, governed under the Pakistan Single Window Act, 2021 (Act III of 2021), continues to integrate new organizations into its system to streamline trade and regulatory processes. Through the issuance of S.R.O. 2076(I)/2024, the Governing Council has announced the inclusion of seven additional Other Government Agencies (OGAs) into the PSW framework. These agencies are set to adopt the system starting 1st July 2024. Below is an overview of the newly added OGAs and their roles.
List of OGAs Integrated into PSW
- Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP): DRAP oversees the regulation and control of pharmaceutical and therapeutic goods. Its inclusion in PSW aims to expedite the clearance of medical products through a unified platform.
- Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP): TDAP promotes and facilitates trade activities, particularly exports. With its integration, exporters can expect a more streamlined process for documentation and compliance.
- Special Technology Zone Authority (STZA): STZA is tasked with fostering technology and innovation through the establishment of Special Technology Zones. Its participation in PSW will help enhance the efficiency of trade involving technology-related goods.
- Pakistan Tobacco Board (PTB): Responsible for regulating tobacco production and trade, PTB’s inclusion will facilitate smoother trade processes for tobacco-related products.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority (KPRA): KPRA manages tax collection within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Through PSW, it will streamline revenue collection for transactions under its jurisdiction.
- Balochistan Revenue Authority (BRA): Similar to KPRA, BRA oversees tax management in Balochistan. Its inclusion is expected to improve the integration of tax processes for goods traded in the province.
- Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA): PRA handles tax collection in Punjab. The PSW system will enhance the efficiency of tax-related operations for Punjab-based businesses.
Effective Implementation Date
The notification specifies that the integration of these OGAs into the PSW system will come into effect from 1st July 2024. This timeline provides the respective authorities ample preparation time to fully adapt to the system and ensure a seamless transition.
Importance of Pakistan Single Window
PSW is a revolutionary step towards digitalizing trade processes in Pakistan. It provides a single platform for various stakeholders, including customs, government agencies, and private entities, to handle all import, export, and transit trade processes. This integration reduces redundancies, minimizes delays, and fosters a more transparent and efficient trade ecosystem.
Benefits of Integrating New OGAs
- Streamlined Operations: Businesses and traders can process documentation and compliance requirements for multiple agencies through a single platform.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: Reducing procedural bottlenecks leads to faster approvals and reduced costs for traders.
- Improved Compliance: A unified system ensures better regulatory adherence and reduces errors associated with manual processes.
- Enhanced Coordination: Collaboration among agencies becomes more efficient, ensuring smooth inter-agency operations.
Future Outlook
The inclusion of these new OGAs is a significant step in expanding the reach and functionality of the Pakistan Single Window system. By bringing more stakeholders onto this platform, the PSW initiative is set to transform Pakistan’s trade landscape, fostering growth and facilitating ease of doing business.