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Daily

Vol 1 Issue No. 196

Karachi, Wednesday October 07, 2015

SIALKOT

ZAFAR MALIK

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he Customs Anti-Smuggling Organisation Sialkot has seized smuggled clothes, electronics, dry fruits, cosmetics, locks, trucks, cars and other valuables worth Rs 15 million during different operations in September 2015.

The customs conducted raids following the directions of Collector Ahamd Reza at various important parts, including bridge over Rive Chenab near Gujrat, GT Road, Alam Chowk and Pindi by Pass near Gujranwala during the month of Sep-

Price Rs. 14.00

tember 2015.

According to Superintendent Saifullah, these valuables were smuggled from Afghanistan, India, Iran, China and other countries and were being brought for sale and purchase in different markets in Sialkot, Gujrat, Gujranwala and Lahore markets, when they were seized during the special check by the ASO. He said that foreign clothes worth Rs 4 million, locks worth of Rs 7 million, LCD TVs worth Rs 0.5 million, dry fruits worth Rs 4.7 million, shoes worth Rs. 0.5 million, two trucks and a car worth Rs 7.3 million were seized during the last month, besides arresting three accused Ghazanfar, Tasleem and Saeed ul Haq, in this regard.

FTO supports FBR’s efforts to enhance capacity building of tax officials

SHC quashes duty on import of alloy steel

Businessmen hails CM’s intervention in WHT on banking transactions issue

Customs Preventive collects Rs 11.786 billion in September

Collector Junejo’s Customs Exports working with just 95 officials

FTO supports efforts of FBR to enhance capacity building of tax officials. | See pAge 02 |

SHC has ruled that hot rolled steel sheets in coils will be classified as alloy steel. | See pAge 03 |

Shahbaz says issue of WHT on banking transactions will be solved amicably. | See pAge 04 |

Collection made under the head of duties/taxes during September 2015. | See pAge 06 |

Customs Exports facing shortage of staff since its bifurcation in 2013. | See pAge 12 |

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KP NAB arrests income tax supervisor on corruption charges Wednesday, October 7, 2015

National

PESHAWAR: The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) has arrested accused Muhammad Saddique, supervisor Income Tax Department in Abbottabad, for allegedly accumulating assets worth millions of rupees beyond known sources of his income. During the course of inquiry, it was revealed that the accused Muhammad Saddique belongs to a humble family of Abbottabad. The accused during his service in Income Tax Department Abbottabad has accumulated huge assets beyond known sources of his income including costly properties in Abbottabad and Islamabad. Further probe into the matter is being made. After conclusion of the property search, Reference will be filed in Accountability Court against the accused.

Fto supports FBR’s efforts to enhance capacity building of tax officials

PRA to launch awareness campaign for taxpayers LAHORE

FTO is coordinating with the FBR representatives to improve identification of systemic issues and handle findings of investigations ISLAMABAD

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he Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) supports efforts of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to enhance capacity building of tax officials.

According to sources, the FTO Secretariat has been rendering invaluable support to the FBR for capacity building of its staffers in efficient settlement of disputes. The FTO is coordinating with the FBR representatives to improve identification of systemic issues and handle findings of investigations.

The FTO officials said that all these steps were likely to result in building taxpayers’ trust on tax collecting institutions.

On the other hand, among the six regional offices of the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Lahore received the highest numbers of fresh complaints.

According to the latest information, the FTO office Lahore received the highest numbers of fresh complaints i.e. 652, than the other regional offices, including Karachi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Quetta and Peshawar. Documents available with Customs Today disclosed that

AnF arrests drug smuggler, recovers 60kg charas nti Narcotics Force Peshawar arrested a smuggler and recovered 60 kilogram chars from the hidden cavity of the car.

Sources said that personnel of Anti Narcotics Force flag down a car on Kohat road Peshawar and after searching its hidden cavities, they recovered 60 kilogram chars from his possession. The identity of the persons could not revealed by the ANF however further investigation is in progress.

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after Lahore region, Karachi received the second highest numbers of complaints, i.e. 501 in the pre-

ceding year (2014).

Islamabad region received 112 complaints, Faisalabad 253, Pe-

shawar 55 and Quetta region received 51 complaints in the preceding year.

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IMRAn MehAR

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he Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has announced to hold training and awareness raising programs for the taxpayers before issuing them the final recovery notices.

The PRA is trying to motivate the business community to ensure early submission of their sales tax returns.

Punjab Revenue Authority Chairman Dr Raheel Siddiqui directed all the commissioners and other relevant officers to take necessary measures to aware the taxpayers and common citizens about importance of sales tax.

He also directed the officers that awareness can enhance the revenue of the department so it should be the first step before taking strict action against defaulters.

Different teams of PRA will arrange meetings to meet traders and business community to enhance cooperation among the stake holders. Proposals from traders and business community would be honoured as well in this regard.

FBR accepts voluntary retirement of two officers ISLAMABAD

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hAIDeR ALI

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he Federal Board Of Revenue (FBR) accepted voluntary retirement of two officers of Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) of Preventive Lahore on Monday.

According to notifications issued by the FBR, on completion of 35 years qualifying service for pension, the competent authority has been pleased to allow voluntary retirement from government service to MCC of Preventive Superintendent Lahore Tariq Amin and 30 years

qualifying service for pension Sakhi Muhammad Principal Appraiser (BS-16) MCC of Preventive Lahore with immediate effect.

Secretary (Mgt Customs-III) Qasim Khan Khattak has issued the notification.

Qasim Khattak has also issued the notification of the retirement of Bashir Ahmed Samoo on same date.

On attaining the age of superannuation, Bashir Samoo, BS-16 Officer of Sales Tax Department, presently posted as Superintendent , Regional Tax Office (RTO), Hyderabad, shall stand retired from government service with effect from 28-Nov-

2015.

As well as in pursuance of Board’s Notification No. 2134-CII/2015 dated September, 09.2015 Dr. Muhammad Nadeem Memon a PCS/BS-19 officer assumed the charge of the post of Additional Director, Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi on 28.09.2015. In this regard notification issued on Monday by Secretary (Mgt Customs-I) Hassan Saqib Sheikh.

While Hassan Saqib Sheikh also give the performance allowance (equivalent to 100% of basic pay) in respect of Dr. Muhammad Nadeem

Memon a PCS/BS-19 officer. He is presently posted as Additional Director, Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi is hereby restored w.e.f. 14.09.2015.

Further, in pursuance of Board’s Notification No. 2134-C-II/2015 dated 09.09.2015 Dr. Shahab Imam a PCS/BS-19 officer has relinquished the charge of the post of Additional Collector, MCC of Appraisement (East), Karachi w.e.f 18.09.2015 and assumed the charge of the post of Additional Collector, MCC (Export), Customs House, Karachi on same date. While order was issued by Hassan Saqib Sheikh.

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FST hears two cases about promotion of FBR employees ISLAMABAD: The Federal Service Tribunal (FST) on Monday heard two cases about promotion of Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR’s) employees and adjourned the hearing till October 13.

The FST bench comprising of two Members, Syed Rafique Hussain Shah and Muhammad Hamid heard the cases.

The bench, after hearing arguments from both sides, adjourned the hearing. However, the FBR counsel did not file any objection on the submitted complaints.

The FBR employees, Sajjad Ahmed and Saleem Akhtar, had filed the petitions, seeking relief against their complaints regarding their promotion.

RTO books Pakistan Sugar Mills Association president in Rs 1 billion tax evasion case

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

National

Shc quashes duty on import of alloy steel

LAHORE

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he Pakistan Sugar Mills Association president has been booked by the FBR Regional Tax office (RTO) Lahore for evasion of over Rs 1 billion tax. Sources said that the detected tax evasion scam was being assessed to be the highest amount in the history of RTO Lahore. The sources said that a few arrests have been made while efforts were being made to arrest Riaz Qadeer Butt and others directors nominated in FIR NO.04/2015. Sources said that a complaint was made to the chief justice the Lahore High Court that the group, Mecca Group of Companies was involved in massive tax evasion and the court directed the FBR to submit a report. The group of companies filed various writ petitions against the department; however, finally the court instructed the FBR to finalize the report. Sources said on instruction of Chief Commissioner Waqar Ahmad investigation was conducted by the RTO Lahore, which revealed that M/s Mecca Sugar Mills PV, M/s Haq Bahu Sugar Mills, and M/s Abdullah Shah Ghazi Sugar Mills (PVT) were involved in tax fraud through fictitious bank accounts which were owned by employees in order to conceal the actual production of sugar mills.

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Faisalabad Adjudication issues ONO against smuggled tyres, tubes he Customs Adjudication has issued Order in Original (ONO) against smuggled motorcycle tyres and tubes made in Indonesia.

Faisalabad Additional collector (adjudication), Amjadur Rehman, issued ONO, by declaring the confiscation of 3430 non-duty paid smuggled imported motorcycle tyres and tubes.

As per details, Customs Intelligence Officer Faisalabad Muhammad Yousaf, intercepted a Mazda mini truck bearing registration no. P- 2131/ NWFP Model 1980 and recovered 3430 tyres and tubes.

The Customs authorities asked the driver who was identified as Muhammad Tariq son of Misel Khan who is a resident of Charsadda to provide the documents regarding import of above said items.

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he Sindh High Court (SHC) has ruled that hot rolled steel sheets in coils, containing 0.0008 percent or more chemical element ‘boron’ would be classified as alloy steel which would attract zero customs duty on its import.

Chief Justice Faisal Arab, who headed a division bench, gave this verdict on a petition filed by Muhammad Sabir, who moved the court against the customs authorities for charging 5 percent customs duty on alloy steel imported from China under Free Trade Agreement.

Addressing the concern of the custom authorities that non-alloy steel is being imported under the garb of alloy steel on reduced duty, the court said that if they are of the view that boron is not inherent part of hot rolled steel sheets and the consignment is declared as alloy steel to avoid custom duty, they would be at liberty to get the consignment re-examined from laboratory.

It ruled that the customs officials after examining this aspect in the light of test results would

issue letters to the respective importers whose consignments of hot rolled steel sheets in coils contain more than 0.0008 percent or more boron for release of bank guarantee or pay order deposited with Nazir of the court against provisional release of their consignments. The Court directed the authorities to carry out examina-

tion and decide these matters within 90 days.

In the petition, Sabir submitted that he imported hot rolled alloy steel, containing 0.0009 percent boron according to the mill test certificate issued by the manufacturers, classifiable under HS Code 7225,3000. There is zero customs duty on its import under FTA. Nev-

customs court grants judicial remand of suspect in currency smuggling LAHORE

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IMRAn MehAR

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he Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and Anti Smuggling issued a 14-day judicial remand of a suspect in currency smuggling case on Monday.

Suspect Shahbaz Ahmad was produced before the court where investigation officer Muhammad Usman stated that no more physi-

cal remand of the accused was required so the court can send him to jail on judicial trial. Shahbaz was in the customs custody on physical remand for three days.

After hearing arguments from the Customs lawyer, the court granted 14-day judicial remand of the accused and sent him to jail.

It is pertinent to mention here that Shahbaz Ahmad was arrested on last Wednesday when Customs Preventive at Lahore airport foiled a bid to smuggle Rs 5.2 million for-

eign currency from Lahore to Muscat.

The accused was set for travelling from Air Blue flight No. PA 450 however, he was arrested by the customs authorities before boarding. The accused tactfully fixed the Omani riyals with his body which was removed by the customs authorities in the presence of Customs ADC Sumer Ahmad Tarar while inspector Nadeem Iqbal and others were also present on the occasion.

ertheless, the customs staff assessed duty on the consignment at 5 percent.

The court was requested to declare that hot rolled steel sheets containing 0.0008 percent or more boron would be classified as alloy steel and there is zero duty on its import.

FIA arrests 261 human traffickers, recovers 1,012 passports IA has arrested 261 accused involved in human trafficking during different raids on 59 places in twin-cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad from January to September 2015. Sources told Customs Today that during the crackdown against human traffickers, the FIA recovered 1,012 passports while 6 most wanted human traffickers were also arrested. Sources further added that FIA has recovered Rs 58 million from these human traffickers and distributed the recovered money among the affectees.

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Bank of Punjab announces to give Rs 30m soft loans to small farmers Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Business

CHAKWAL: Bank of Punjab has announced to give soft loans of Rs30 million to small growers and poultry farmers. This was stated by district complex branch manager Waseem Iqbal Awan. He said that the owner of control shed would get loan of Rs6 to 7 million for the running business. While, the farmers of Chakwal and Talagang have already been provided Rs10.7 million on very easy terms and conditions. He further told that two latest ATM machines have been installed to facilitate the account holders and 24 hours service. Senior relation manager Akhtar Hussain asked the controlled shed owners who are interested to get soft loan to contact the branch.

Businessmen hails cM’s intervention in wht on banking transactions issue LAHORE

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hief Minister Punjab Mian Shahbaz Sharif said that issue of withholding tax on banking transactions will be solved amicably.

He was addressing a meeting of traders here at Chief Minister House on Monday. MNA Pervez Malik, LCCI Vice President and Political Assistant to Chief Minister Nasir Saeed, representatives of business community Ashraf Bhatti, Khalid Pervez, Anjum Mahmoob Butt, Naeem Mir, Abdul Razzaq Babbar, Mahbood Sirki, Khawaja Shafiq, Shahid Nazir, Chairman PML-N Traders Wing Punjab Muhammad Ali Mian and a large

number of traders were present on the occasion.

Shahbaz Sharif informed the participants that he already had contacted Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar to convey traders’ concern over imposition of 0.6% withholding tax on banking transactions and urged them to review the matter for an amicable solution. Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif said that traders’ community is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy and has always played an important role in the country’s progress and development.

He said that Punjab government is utilizing all available resources to make the province a hub of trade & economic activities. He said that no stone would be left unturned to get the issues being faced by the business community solved.

Speaking on the occasion, LCCI

Vice President and Political Assistant to Chief Minister Nasir Saeed said that business community appreciates Chief Minister Punjab

Mian Shahbaz Sharif for taking up this matter with the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and hoped that CM’s personal interest for early solution of withholding tax on bank transactions would yield positive results.

Meanwhile, Chinese investors have showed keen interest to enter into joint ventures with their Pakistani counterparts in the fields of solar & coal power generation projects. A 2-member Chinese delegation comprising CEO Asia Pacific Sun Huoi and Miss Fang Wong from MenShine Fang Wong Monday called on the LCCI President Sheikh Muhammad Arshad. The delegation members said that the Chinese business community values Pakistan highly therefore they were always ready to put their money in new ventures in Paki

Jatoi asks German investors to invest in auto sectors ISLAMABAD

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ederal Minister for Industries and Production Ghulam Murtaza Khan Jatoi has asked the German investors to invest in auto and other industrial sectors of Pakistan.

Jatoi said this during a meeting with German Ambassador Ina Lepal at her residence. He highlighted the role of the Ministry of Industries

and Production in detail before the Ambassador and apprised her of how, through provincial decentralization, the provinces have significant control over their industries.

Industrial parks were also a topic of discussion as the minister explained how they are necessary to give companies incentives and tax relaxation for foreign companies that want to set up industries within Pakistan. The minister said that industries for new technology can be set up anywhere in Pakistan and are not bound to industrial parks.

The minister also stressed how his ministry uses subsidies to make food products more affordable to the massed through the network of stores of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) of Pakistan.

The Ambassador asked the minister about the Ministry’s role in skill development and entrepreneurship to which the minister detailed the workings of Pakistan Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), National Productivity Organization (NPO) and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA).

Pak embassy launches campaign in Japan to create trade opportunities ith the aim to help promote local products in international market, the Pakistani embassy in Tokyo has launched a campaign in Japan.

Under the campaign awareness will be created amongst the Japanese investors about existing opportunities in trade and tourism industry of the country.

Shehzad Ahmad Khan, Commercial Counsellor, gave a presentation under the title of ‘Pakistan, A Land with Opportunities Unlimited’ at Tabi SummitII, Tokyo. He briefed the audience on the trade, investment and tourism opportunities offered by Pakistan.

Speaking on the subject, he explained Pakistan-Japan relations in the historical perspective and reasons to choose Pakistan as a trade and investment partner. He highlighted Pakistan’s importance with reference to its strategic location at the crossroads of West, Central and South Asia, the developed industrial clusters, investment friendly environment and tourist attractions. The presentation was followed by a lively Question-Answer session, which continued over informal networking Hi-Tea. Earlier, TamaoIwamaru, President, M/s Key Noters Inc. Japan (organizer of the Tabi Summit) welcomed the Counsellor and shared the objective of Tabi Summit as a platform to introduce respective countries in Japan. The representatives from Azerbaijan, Tanzania and Lithuania also introduced their countries at the summit.

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cement sector’s profit surges by 13% to Rs 46.6b T

LAHORE

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he cement sector’s profits surged by 13 per cent YoY to Rs46.6 billion in fiscal year 2015 as compared to 14 per cent growth of last year.

However, export fell by 11.7% YoY to 7.2mn tons due to weak demand from Afghanistan market coupled with anti-dumping duty imposed by South Africa on Pakistan cement manufacturers. Local cement demand remained strong up

by 8.2% to 28.3mn tons emanating from 1) higher public and private sector spending and 2) favourable cement industry dynamics.

Growth in profits was also supported by 1) declining financial charges, down by 31.7% YoY thanks to lower policy rate 2) falling selling and distribution expenses, down by 5.2% due to lower inflation and 3) higher other income up by 23.9% YoY due to increase in dividend income & profits from associates.

In 4QFY15, revenues of 11 listed companies grew by 3% to Rs52.8

billion while net earnings grew by 20% YoY to Rs13.6 billion primarily due to 470bps YoY increase in gross margin. Increase in gross margin was fueled by 1) lower coal prices, 2) cement players’ shift to alternate energy sources like Waste Heat Recovery (WHR), and 3) lower electricity charges, down by 17% YoY. Total industry dispatches are expected to grow by 8.8% to 38.6mn tons in FY16 primarily due to strong local demand expected from higher infrastructure spending and mega projects including China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

With stable cement prices and robust local cement demand, we expect sales of Topline Cement Universe to grow by 16%.

Manufacturing costs in FY16 are expected to remain benign for the industry to be led by lower energy costs. Lower electricity charges and shift to more efficient sources like WHR would lead to further decrease in power and fuel costs for concrete players. Moreover, imported coal prices are expected to remain at lower levels owing to slowdown in China’s growth, which will further drive up margins of ce-

ment manufacturers, we believe.

The sample includes 11 out of a total of 19 listed cement companies, representing 95% of the total cement companies’ market capitalization. Other cement companies have either not announced their 4QFY15 results or are adjusted for outliers.

With average cement prices staying almost flat at Rs510560/bag in FY15, total dispatches of the industry grew by 3.5% to 35.5mn tons. Following industry’s volumetric growth, revenues of sample companies grew by 3.7% to Rs194.4 billion.

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Wednesday, October 7, 2015

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Wednesday, October 7, 2015

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KARACHI

AFtAB chAnnA

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he Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) Preventive collected around Rs 11.786 billion under the head of duties/taxes during the month of September 2015.

According to official statistics, the Customs Preventive collected revenue to the tune of Rs 2,519.34 million under the head of customs duty, out of which Rs 3.07 million was refunded/rebated.

Moreover, under the head of sales tax, the Customs Preventive collected Rs 7,432.03 million, while an amount of Rs 1,128.17 million was collected under the head of income tax in September 2015. Also, the Customs Preventive collected Rs 706.74 million as federal excise duty during the same period.

Meanwhile, Customs Preven-

tive Assistant Collector (Headquarters) Syed Mohammad Raza Naqvi has said that more than 450,000 litres of smuggled Iranian diesel have been seized while smugglers arrested in the nine month of the current year.

Moreover, in three months July, August and September this year, the MCC Preventive seized more than 190,000 litres of smuggled Iranian diesel that is the major achievement of the collectorate that his working under the leadership of Collector S M Tariq Huda, stated AC (Headquarters) Syed Mohammad Raza in an exclusive interview with Customs Today.

Elaborating further, the assistant collector disclosed that the seizure, recovery of smuggled Iranian diesel in these three months last year was just 5,500 litres.

“The modus-operandi has been changed by the smugglers as in the past the smugglers used to smuggle larger quantities of diesel, petrol or goods. However,

now smuggling are taking place rarely through smaller quantities by passengers coaches or small transportation”, he added.

The officer said that Pakistan Customs was maintaining close eye on each and every single movement of the smugglers, adding that the smuggling had almost stopped.

In the recent past, the MCC Preventive launched a major crackdown against the petrol pumps selling Iranian diesel in the Kathore region at Superhighway and demolished 15 to 20 pumps and arrested many people on the spot.

“The operation was purely carried out by the customs authorities without the help of police or rangers that reflected that Pakistan Customs writ has been made established and made stronger”.

“We have also busted a dumping place for Iranian diesel at Gadap area, near Baqai Medical College and recovered some 30,000 litres of Iranian diesel”, Raza added.

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Founder & Chairman Zulfiqar Ali Editor Rahil Yasin editor@customsbulletin.com.pk For advertising & subscription marketing@customsbulletin.com.pk www.customsbulletin.com Phones: 042-35781643-4, Fax: 042-35781645 Address: 627, Siddiq Trade Centre, Gulberg, Lahore

eDItoRIAL

good and bad for economy

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report from the International Monetary Fund says that the economy of Pakistan is gradually picking up after improvement in its fiscal discipline with minimum chances of imminent threat to the economy.

The donor agency has projected the country’s real GDP growth at 4.5 percent this fiscal year thanks to macroeconomic stability, low oil prices, planned improvements in the domestic energy supply and investment related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The report feared that inflation could increase in coming months with the anticipated stabilization of commodity prices. On another note, a World Bank report about the state of the economy is not very promising and it seems the real situation is still out of the bounds of rating agencies such as Moody’s, Standard and Poor's and Fitch’s reports.

No doubt the present government is taking various initiatives, involving foreign investors to set up economic zones in the country, but how the prevailing energy crisis will end is still a big question for the government. It is good omen that the foreign exchange reserves have crossed $20 billion mark and are increasing due to lower import prices and cheap commodity prices in the international market.

Besides, the new interest rate corridor, introduced by the State Bank of Pakistan, is regarded as a major step toward improvement of the monetary policy framework, leading to greater financial autonomy. However, the donor agency seeks the government to plug loopholes and channels which are used for money laundering and the terror financing in the country.

As a matter of fact, all the donor agencies are seeking the government to introduce structural reforms to achieve high and durable growth over the medium term. The government sought to take step to ensure smooth supply of electricity and gas to the industrial sector and reduce fiscal risks. There is a need to accelerated pace of privatization and restructuring of public sector organizations to improve business climate in the country.

Voices of concern are also being raised against rampant corruption in Pakistan and the government is advised to focus on reforms and try to overcoming structural challenges to arrest the falling exports, increase investment and job opportunities in the country.

The government is already trying to stop tax evasion and enhance tax net, but implementation of vital policies through ‘office orders’ will not serve any purpose, but would worsen the situation.

The recent tax on bank transaction through the office order is fueling resentment among the business community as well as destroying the banking system in the country.

Instead, the government should devise a system of tax collection at source and avoid taking steps which are harmful for the national economy.

Exporters wait incentive package for textile sector A

LAHORE

DR AFtAB AFZAL

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ccording to the All PakistanTextileMills Association (APTMA), the country’s textile exports can be doubled in the next five years if the government creates a congenial environment for the industry.

Tariq Saud, the newly elected president of the representative body, says that the textile industry is set to receive $1 billion annual investment provided the government comes up with special incentives and facilitations.He said that the spinning industry is designed to operate round the clock, but is currently operating at 66

percent of its installed capacity.At least 15 well-established spinning mills have been closed down after exhausting all their resources and others are on the verge of collapse as the cost production has increased manifold. The industry needs a package of incentives without which it will not be able to continue its operations. The exports are universally zero-rated, but are subjected to various taxes and levies in Pakistan that have reached five percent of the export value.

Earlier on several occasions, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar had hinted at announcing a relief package, butit is inordinately delayed.

The textile sector needs cheap

electricity as the current power tariff is too high to do any good to lower the cost of production and enhance exports whereas the industrialists demand zero rating.

According to the APTMA official, the revival of the textile sector will remain a distant dream without reducing power tariff to Rs9 per unit.

A delay in the package is also impeding the creation of job opportunities in the textile industry.

As a matter of fact, the government should come clear on its policies toward the textile industry which is one of the biggest employment sectors all over the world.The country is creating joblessness in textile sector at a fast rate due to low sale of yarn in local market, but India is adding new

jobs in textile sector due to usage of local yarn in the local market.

The government earns billions of rupees foreign exchange through textile exports, but is not ready to announce incentives for the exporters. The exporters in India, China and Bangladesh are being givenrebate on textile exports, but various types of taxes paid by the exporters are not refunded in Pakistan. In India, the textile exporters are being given facilities beyond normal rebates on textile exports to 94 countries, including Pakistan. As a result, the Indian exporters are dumping their products in Pakistan and the Indian government is protecting its spinning industry by levying duties on the import of yarn.

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Chinese patrons want to invest in solar, coal power projects LAHORE: The Chinese investors have expressed interest to invest in the fields of solar and coal power generation projects. A two-member Chinese delegation comprising CEO Asia Pacific Sun Huoi and Fang Wong from MenShine Fang Wong has called on LCCI President Sheikh Muhammad Arshad.

They said that both China and Pakistan are resourceful countries but the level of bilateral economic relations do match with the warmth of their ties therefore the private sectors in the two countries need to come forward to further strengthen these relations. To a question, the Chinese delegation members said that they are also planning to step in into joint ventures with the businessmen of UAE. Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Sheikh Muhammad Arshad said that China is a timetested friend and a very important partner in Pakistan Economic Development and bilateral trade.

CDA asked to repair broken roads of Islamabad Dry Port at the earliest SIALKOT

Chambers

Kenya keens to enhance trade volume with pakistan SIALKOT

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slamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry called upon the Capital Development Authority to repair the broken roads of Islamabad Dry Port and Industrial Areas on priority in order to facilitate the growth of trade and industrial activities.

Atif Ikram Sheikh, president, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that Islamabad Dry Port road was broken for the last 10 years, but CDA was paying no attention to its repair due to which the heavy loaded vehicles going to dry port and industrial areas were facing great problems. He stressed that CDA should work on war footing basis to repair these broken roads and restore the faulty street lights of these areas.

He said that hundreds of cargo vehicles daily ply on dry port and industrial areas roads in Islamabad but their due to dilapidated conditions of these roads, many vehicles develop frequent faults. He said government was earning millions of rupees from dry port and industrial areas in terms of sales tax and excise duty but was paying no attention to develop these roads at part with international standards due to which business community was facing great inconvenience.

Sheikh Pervez Ahmed senior vice president and Sheikh Abdul Waheed Vice President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that condition of roads in I-11 Sector near Metro Habib Cash and Carry was also pathetic as these roads were dotted with frequent big potholes. They stressed upon the CDA to repair these broken roads on urgent basis.

They said Islamabad was the face of Pakistan but broken roads, faulty street lights and chocked sewerage systems in the Federal Capital were damaging the image of whole country. They emphasized that CDA should address the key issues of industrial areas and markets on priority basis that will help in smooth growth of business and industrial activities.

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Wednesday, October 7, 2015

igh Commissioner of Kenya in Pakistan Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok said that Kenya was intending to double the mutual bilateral trade volume with Pakistan from persisting $600 million during the next two or three years, saying that the time was ripe to promote the strengthened mutual bilateral trade with Pakistan through enhancing the exports of tea, rice, traditional and non-traditional products with Pakistan.

He stated this while addressing an important meeting of Sialkot business community held at Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), after visiting the several leading industrial units in Sialkot. Kenyan Commercial Counselor Mr. Filimona Wambulwa , acting SCCI President Muhammad Sarfraz Butt, former SVPs Mian Muhammad Anwar, Mir Alamgir Meyer and Chairperson SCCI Committee for Women Entrepreneurs Syed Shabina Gillani were also

present on this occasion.

Kenyan High Commissioner High offered some direct trade relations to Sialkot exporters and announced to develop strong business to business contacts between Kenya’s National Chamber of Commerce, Nairobi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). Prof.

Julius Kibet Bitok Kenya would soon host WTO International Trade Conference at Nairobi-Kenya, saying that

the Kenya would be the first African country to host this WTO trade conference, urging the World to take Kenya favourably and positively now.

While, presenting address of welcome, acting President of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Muhammad Sarfraz Butt said that Kenya and Pakistan enjoy most cordial relations, which provide strong ground to strengthen trade economic cooperation.

He said that trade between

Sialkot chamber office-bearers take charge of their offices

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SIALKOT

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he new cabinet of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has sworn in. A leading exporter Fazal Jillani was elected unopposed as President of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) during its annual elections.

Meanwhile, Mir Alamgir Myere was elected unopposed as SVP and Malik Naseer Akhtar as VP of SCCI. The newly elected SCCI office bearers took the charge of their offices during SCCI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).

On the other hand, Muhammad Younas was elected unopposed as Chairman of Pakistan Gloves Manu-

facturers and Exporters Association (PGMEA), while , Abdullah Nadeem was elected as SVC and Sheikh Ejaz Jammu as VC of PGMEA during its annual elections held here.

The newly elected cabinet of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has vowed to continue struggle for ensuring the early completion of the mega projects of establishing an international standard Sialkot Business and Trade Center, Sialkot Tanneries Zone, Sialkot Engineering University and another Small Industrial Estate at Sialkot, enabling the small traders, exporters and venders to establish their own small industrial units there.

The newly elected SCCI Cabinet, today, sworn in during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the

auditorium of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) here.

Sialkot business community’s leader Sheikh Riazud Din took oath from newly elected SCCI President Fazal Jillani, SVP Muhammad Alamgir Myere and VP Malik Naseer Akhtar during this prestigious ceremony largely attended by Sialkot’s leading business and financial tycoons here.

Addressing the participants, newly elected SCCI President Fazal Jillani said that the exporters of Sialkot are the “Roaming Ambassadors of Pakistan”, who travel all around the world to fetch business and with their personal efforts, the export earnings of Sialkot stand at US $ 1.6 billion annually, which is six percent of the total exports of Pakistan.

Kenya and Pakistan has been growing steadily. However, the true trade potential between the two countries is yet to be exploited for which we need to diversify product range as presently, Rice, Tea, Cereals and Cotton are the major commodities of trade between the two countries.

It is encouraging to note that two countries are working on developing new strategy to enhance trade and diversify the range of trade products, he added.

Govt censured for issuing $500 million Eurobond ll Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) has criticised the government for issuing $500 million Eurobond, saying the high mark-up rate would further plunge the country in expensive debt.

APBF President Ibrahim Qureshi, in a statement, said that the government has acquired a loan of about $3.5 billion by launching Eurobonds at excessive mark-up rate of 8.25 on average in just two years.

Qureshi said that the recent move was surprising since the very same government sold $2 billion Eurobonds and Sukuks at 8% and 7% mark-up, respectively, last year, implying the economic managers have acquired loan at more than 2% higher markup. He said that the government has been exploring possibilities of financing its deficit from multiple sources including IMF, World Bank, domestic borrowing and now it has found the easiest, yet extremely expensive solution of all, Eurobonds.

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Azerbaijan to review limit tax, customs exemption in 2017-19 Wednesday, October 7, 2015

World

BAKU: Parliamentary hearings on Azerbaijan’s Bill on State Budget 2015, launched today, have led to the first political statements. Presenting the budget package, Finance Minister Samir Sharifov said that in 2016 and 2017-19 the government plans to review and limit tax and customs exemptions on some spheres and even cancel them on some sectors. "At the same time in the medium-term prospect it is planned to simplify the taxation of public catering, trade and construction. That will give an additional impetus to development of entrepreneurship that will eventually lead to growth of State Budget income," Sharifov said. He considers that among the priorities of medium-term fiscal policy should be increased share of the non-oil sector in the budget revenues, decrease of State Oil Fund’s transfer to the budget, and further steps on privatization of state property.

george town port customs impounds fishing vessel, arrests honduran national GEORGE TOWN

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even Honduran nationals have been arrested after Her Majesty’s Customs seized a fishing vessel this week.

Those on the boat included six males and one female. One person is on bail, while the others remain in custody as the investigation continues.

Customs officers remove materials from the vessel after their search.

The arrests came after Customs officers found drugs and under-declared alcohol on board the vessel ‘Baby Sol’ on Tuesday (29 September).

Collector of Customs Charles Clifford said the 50-foot fishing vessel called into George Town Port, and

Indian customs seizes 1.40kg gold bar worth Rs 36 lakh at MIA fficers of Customs at Mangaluru International Airport seized about 1.40-kgs of gold bars valued at over Rs 36 lakh from a passenger who arrived from Dubai.

M Subramanyam, commissioner of customs said on reasonable suspicion, officers enquired from a frequent passenger as to whether he possessed any dutiable items to be declared. As the passenger could not provide any satisfactory reply, his baggage was subjected to detailed examination.

Customs officials during examination detected one unusually heavy voltage converter. On a thorough examination, officers detected three rectangular silver paint coated metallic bars which were ingeniously concealed in coil portion of the voltage converter.

The gold assayer confirmed the bars as pure gold of 24 carats.

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during the clearance process, customs officers became suspicious and initiated a full search of the vessel and crew, which led to the discovery and arrests.

The Collector of Customs said the investigation has the potential to be protracted.

Mr. Clifford credited the Customs Seaport, K-9 Unit and Customs Narcotics Enforcement Unit officers for

the intervention and detection.

“We will continue to focus on protecting our borders and those found in contravention of the various laws must realize that the rule of law shall prevail,” he warned.

The Customs boss declined to make further comment at this stage and explained that the investigation “has the potential to be protracted”.

Malaysian Customs receives complains over input tax delays

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he Customs Department has been praised for reducing delays in input tax refunds.

MCA small and medium-scale enterprises (SME) bureau chief Datuk Ei Kim Hock said complaints over delays had dropped drastically, with the department engaging and listening to stakeholders. Ei said the department initially did not have enough manpower to resolve the

problems, and the bureau then sought the help of Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Chua Tee Yong. He said a meeting called by Chua with Customs, the bureau and other commercial associations managed to iron out issues. SME Association of Malaysia national president Michael Kang welcomed the improvements but said some members still faced problems getting refunds.

US Customs facility construction begins with $2m at Lone Star Executive Airport

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NEW YORK

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avid Christy, from left, of Montgomery, and Allen Garcia, of Spring, tow a Challenger 605 to a hangar at Galaxy FBO at Lone Star Executive Airport in Conroe.David Christy, from left, of Montgomery, and Allen Garcia, of Spring, tow a Challenger 605 to a hangar at Galaxy FBO at Lone Star Executive Airport in Conroe.

Construction began this week on the new $2 million U.S. Customs facility at Lone Star Executive Airport in spite of The Woodlands Township's withdrawal of funding last year amid board member objections.

Although the township Board of Directors refused to fund the facility, the endeavor did garner support from The Woodlands Economic Development Partnership, which committed $50,000 toward the facility's construction costs after its budget

produced a net income.

"Instead of putting that money in the bank, we felt we should put it to work," said Gil Staley, chief executive officer of the EDP. "The niche market we enjoy is one of corporate headquarters, and (the customs facility) will help us in recruitment efforts."

The 3,200-square-foot facility is expected to be operational by May 2016 and will be funded mostly by Montgomery County, which will contribute about $1.2 million, as well as cover the $144,000 annual operating costs, some of which will be covered by user fees, said airport director Scott Smith. County Judge Craig Doyal said he expects the airport to be an asset to the county by attracting more corporations. The airport, soon to be known as Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport, conducted a survey in 2013 and found that, in 18 months, about 160 flights had cleared customs at a different facility before landing in Conroe, Smith said.

Jamaica customs collects J$12.950b revenue last month KINGSTON

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amaica Customs has exceeded the Ministry of Finance and Planning (MOFP) revenue target of J$12.950B for the month of September 2015, by collecting J$15.093B, in gross revenue.

Since the start of the fiscal year (2015/2016), the Agency’s gross collections stand at J$88.604B. The Ja-

maica Customs Agency continues to improve its business processes through automation with the implementation of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World) which will result in greater efficiency and client service improvements. Jamaica Customs has exceeded the Ministry of Finance and Planning (MOFP) revenue target of J$12.950B for the month of September 2015, by collecting J$15.093B, in gross revenue. The target was surpassed by J$2.144B or 16.55%.

nigerian customs impounds n1.63b worth fake drugs

F ABUJA

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rom records, the 843 cartons of imported fake drugs are: 696 cartons of fake imported Lubumol and 153 cartons of tramodol analgesics, amounting to a Duty Paid Value of N163,260,000.00 The Nigeria Customs Service, Fed-

eral Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘C’, Owerri recorded various seizures comprising of truck with 843 cartons of fake drugs, another truck containing furniture and furniture components with a Duty Paid Value of N226,380.000.00.

From records, the 843 cartons of imported fake drugs are: 696 cartons of fake imported Lubumol and 153 cartons of tramodol analgesics,

amounting to a Duty Paid Value of N163,260,000.00. The Customs Area Controller in charge of the unit, Comptroller Dimka Victor David, who disclosed this to newsmen at the premises of the NCS, Imo-Abia Command in Owerri, where he showcased the exhibits, said they were confiscated on the Eleme/Aba Road on September 22.

Dimka said the eagle-eye men of

the unit, who have traditionally kept vigil on the nefarious activities of diehard smugglers, also seized 303 cartons of glass dining table, 1,936 pieces of side stool, with a DPV of N63,120,000 on the same axis, warning that the Nigeria customs service would never rest on its oars until smugglers and their collaborators are flushed out from their hideouts in all nooks and crannies of the country.

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Rotterdam Port, LBC tank terminals start building new jetty HONG KONG: The Port of Rotterdam Authority has initiated the construction of a new jetty at the LBC terminal in Botlek – Rotterdam on October 2nd, 2015. ‘The new jetty will provide LBC Rotterdam with the necessary capacity to enhance our capabilities to customers and expand on maritime services’, explains Walter Wattenbergh, CEO at LBC. The new jetty will have four berths, two for seagoing vessels and two for barges. This will quadruple the jetty capacity of the LBC terminal. The jetty will be built in two phases. The first phase, comprising the construction of two berths, will be ready by mid-2016. All four berths will be operational by the end of 2017. LBC will in due course be able to handle parcel tankers up to 80.000 DWT and simultaneous loading and discharging across all berths.

NSW gives its backing for proposed terminal at Port Waratah he New South Wales Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) this week gave its backing for the proposed Terminal 4 (T4) project, at Port Waratah. The T4 project would add an additional 70million tonnes a year of coal export capacity at the port, with the project to be built in stages, according to demand. The PAC’s approval was subject to a number of conditions to prevent or limit environmental impacts.

These included air quality and meteorological monitoring, a biodiversity offset strategy, soil and water quality management and various other management plans. While the project had initially been scheduled to come on stream this year, coal handling facility Port Waratah Coal Services (PWCS) in 2012 warned that the project had been pushed back to mid2017. PWCS welcomed the PAC’s approval, with CEO Hennie du Plooy saying it marked a significant milestone for the T4 project and the local coal industry.

“The world has changed since we originally lodged the application for T4 in 2010 and the need for extra coal export capacity is not so immediate,” he noted.

“Despite this, planning certainty will allow the industry to respond in good time if additional capacity is required.” He noted that the PAC’s determination also provided the community with certainty about the conditions that would apply to a development.

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Port authority emergency response vessel salutes ECT home terminal ort Authority emergency response vessel saluted the ECT Home terminal.

At that moment, the container ship CMA CGM Sambhar was departing from the terminal. This was the last sea-going client of the oldest container terminal in the port of Rotterdam. Havenbedrijf brengt eresaluut aan ECT Home terminal voor 48 jaar trouwe dienst ECT Home terminal opened in 1967.

The terminal became unable to cope with the increases in scale in container shipping.

Nowadays, the largest container vessels are 400 metres long and 60 metres wide. This requires deeper docks and larger cranes. ECT is switching cargo handling in the Eemhaven to its two much larger and more modern terminals on the Maasvlakte (Delta terminal and Euromax).

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Ports & Shipping

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

of strike at S port of Los Angeles emissions Threat Korea’s Busan port raises bunker prices show dramatic drops in T most recent survey LOS ANGELES

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ommunity leaders joined with port officials in San Pedro for a ceremonial "plugging in" of a China Shipping container ship using new, environmentally friendly technology. June 2004 Daily Breeze file photo.

The Port of Los Angeles has set new records for reducing harmful emissions from port-related activity, with diesel particulates down an unprecedented 85 percent in the past 10 years and sulfur oxides bordering on total elimination.

The latest pollution-reduction figures, contained in a report released Thursday, indicate the port not only has reached its 2014 goals but, in many cases, has hit its 2023 targets. Christopher Cannon, director of the port’s Environmental Management Department, said in a telephone interview Thursday that he isn’t surprised.

“Our success has to be attributed to the fact that the port and business industry worked together in a collaboration to find ways to do this,” said Cannon, who began his

career with the port in the early days of the pollution fight launched under former Mayor James Hahn in 2001. “There are a lot of very creative people in the business community.”

In addition to the 85 percent drop in particulate matter since 2005, sulphur oxides have plummeted 97 percent and nitrogen oxides emissions were down 52 per-

cent in the same period, the port said in a news release.

The plan to cap port pollution at 2001 levels — called historic at the time — was rolled out on March 3, 2005. Some said it wasn’t feasible, noting it would be costly to businesses and necessarily would land heavy blows to ships, trucks and trains.

he threat of a possible strike to be led by bunker fuel barge operators on October 5 at South Korea’s southeastern port of Busan has raised concerns about bunker fuel disruption and shored up prices, South Korean traders said Friday morning.

During the Platts Market On Close assessment process Thursday, the South Korean 380 CST delivered bunker fuel grade was assessed at a one-month high of $276.50/mt, up $11/mt from Wednesday.

South Korean 380 CST delivered bunker fuel prices were last higher on September 1, 2015, at $280/mt.

It is understood that the dispute between barge operators and South Korean refiners arose over barge operating fees paid to barge companies that they deemed too low.

Traders said that barge operators and refiners, among other parties, met Thursday in a bid to reach a settlement over the issue, but talks were inconclusive.

“There were no agreements between parties yesterday [Thursday] and while there have been more talks scheduled for today and tomorrow, it’s not going well, so it looks like the strike is going ahead on October 5,” a South Korean trader said Friday morning.

“Refiners are offering bunker fuel cargoes but it’s all subject to barge strikes … they don’t want to offer low prices because they know there’s a high chance of the strike happening, so they are just offering at high prices,” he said. The duration of the strike at Busan, should it proceed, could not be confirmed Thursday.

Port of Virginia builds terminal network adding Port of Richmond

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NEW YORK

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ichmond City Council on Sept.

14, approved a proposal that allows the Port of Virginia to continue to lease and operate the Port of Richmond barge terminal for the next 40 years.

Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones said partnership with The Port of Virginia holds promise for unlocking the value of the Port of Richmond, which he said is positioned to be one of the greatest economic drivers for the Richmond region.

“In Richmond, we have studied what needs to happen at our port to bring jobs to areas that need them,” Jones said. “A long-term partnership with The Port of Virginia will help to integrate Richmond and Central Virginia into global trade networks. We are confident that with this partnership we can enhance marketing around our port, encourage potential port users to relocate here, and have existing users expand their operations – all of which translate into jobs.

“Ongoing City infrastructure investments in the port area paired with the tremendous resources The Port of Virginia can bring to bear mean this

partnership is the right strategy to get results for our citizens inside and outside the gates of our port.” Richmond City Council was unanimous in its decision to accept the port’s proposal.

“This is a forward-thinking agreement that allows The Port of Virginia to continue to develop and invest in this important maritime asset while working with the city and state on generating economic development – port users – in and around the Port of Richmond,” said Gov. Terry R. McAuliffe. “This strengthens The Port of Virginia network of terminals and will contribute to the New Virginia Economy for the next four decades.”

In July, Port of Virginia officials said publically the port was seeking a long-term lease for the city-owned marine terminal, but would agree to another five-year term if that was what the city leaders found most suitable. The VPA has leased and operated the facility since 2011, and that agreement was set to expire in summer 2016. Virginia Secretary of Transportation Aubrey L. Layne Jr. said the agreement represents an important partnership that secures the Port of Richmond’s future and puts it in the hands of the Commonwealth’s authority on maritime commerce and port operations.

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Customs to crack down on pumps selling Iranian fuel Pakistan Customs is all set to launch a major crackdown against the petrol pumps located in outskirts of the city which are involved in sale of smuggled Iranian fuel particularly the diesel, it is learnt. The major operation would be launched by the Anti Smuggling Organization of the Model Customs Collectorate-Preventive at the National Highway from Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Hadeed to Thatta district, sources told Customs Today. It is mentioned here, that the MCC Preventive ASO launched major operation against the sale of smuggled Iranian diesel at more than 20 fuel stations located in the Kathore region, Super Highway.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

CUSTOMS BULLETIN

250 officials sanctioned

collector Saifuddin Junejo’s customs exports working with just 95 officials KARACHI

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he Model Customs Collectorate MCC Exports, Custom House, is facing acute shortage of staff since its bifurcation in 2013.

Presently, the MCC Exports is working with 95 officials against its sanctioned strength of 250.

There was only one Collectorate Exports, however, the same was bifurcated in 2013 and the Collectorate of Export, Port Muhammad Bin Qasim came into being, sources told Customs Today.

The gravity of the situation could be gauged that the sanctioned strength of Principal Appraiser is 8 but only one Principal Appraiser is working with the collectorate with multiple tasks, sources elaborated.

According to sources, the Exports Collectorate lacked the working atmosphere and the things got messed up there. However, no official bothered to improve the functioning of the collectorate that is interlinked with

the country’s overall export, sources added.

After the posting of MCC Ex-

ports Collector Dr Saifuddin Junejo, the due attention is being paid to the improvement of work-

ing condition there. Moreover, the responsibilities of different sections are also being shifted so that

the officials could perform their duties in a befitting manner, sources concluded.

Smart Zone case: Rawalpindi customs arrests two directors

glers have submitted appeal in Islamabad High Court in this regard.

The sources further told Customs Today that the customs court rejected their bail before arrests due to not providing solid evidences in this case and further more they have not cooperated with I and I authorities.

It is pertinent to mention here that Customs Collector Adjudication has already convicted them in this case and imposed heavy fined on both accused but they have submitted their appeal against the Collector Adjudication verdict in Customs Appellate Tribunal and the decision is still pending.

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ISLAMABAD

ShAhID MInhAS

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ustoms Court Rawalpindi Judge Rana Aftab has ordered to cancel the bail before arrest orders of two directors of Samrt Zone, Latif Hakeem and Asghar Khan, after which both directors were taken into custody by the authorities.

Sources told Customs Today that Deputy Director I and I Shahid Jan has taken physical remand of both accused by the Duty Magistrate and started further investigation. On the other hand, both convicted smugPublished by M S Raza Off# 42, 3rd Flr Gull Plaza M.A Road Karachi, Printed by Dhoom Printing Building No RY/A, 11/6,11/7, Mashoor Mahal,off I.I. Chundrigar Road, Karachi