April 22 layout 1 (1)

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Karachi, Sat April 22, 2017

LAHORE

M HAYAT

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irectorate of Customs Intelligence an Investigation has registered a separate FIR against M/s Maroosh International for stealing seized medicines from their own godown located at Kot Lakhpat.

Sources told Customs Today that seized poultry medicines were allegedly stolen by M/s Maroosh International from their own godown. The customs team had taken the godown of M/s Maroosh International into their custody for evading millions of rupees duty on the vaccination.

The customs authorities had also deployed their own guards at the

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godown to protect any pilferage.

The sources said that the vaccination was stolen by the company owners by dodging the guards deployed at the godown by the customs authorities .

The customs authorities have lodged another FIR against the M/s Maroosh International and have started raids to arrest the owners of the company.

Gwadar Customs seizes huge quantity of smuggled Iranian diesel worth Rs 17.2m

ECC defers summary to withdraw export incentives

SBP studying `blockchain’ technology solution model

PCA summons M/s Faiz Company in Rs189,142 duty, tax evasion case

Customs I&I seizes NDP cigarettes worth Rs36.5m on DG Shaukat’s directive

Gwadar Customs has seized a huge quantity of smuggled Iranian origin Diesel | See pAge 02 |

The ECC of the Cabinet has deferred a summaryforpartiallywithdrawingincentives | See pAge 03 |

The SBP is currently studying ‘blockchain’technology solution model | See pAge 04 |

PCA has summoned M/s Faiz Company, Makkah Colony Rawalpindi, for its alleged | See pAge 14 |

TheDGCustomsI&IPeshawarseized526 cartonsofforeignoriginsmuggledcigarettes | See pAge 16 |

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Customs ASO seized goods and Hino truck in worth of Rs11.5m Saturday, April 22, 2017

National

ISLAMABAD: Anti Smuggling Organization (ASO) seized Indian made Cashew nuts (Kaju), dry batteries, foreign origin welding rods and booster batteries along with oending vehicle under worth of Rs11.5 million.

According to details that the ASO squad was on its routine patrolling when one of Inspector Asif intercepted a Hino tuck bearing registration number GLTA-3286 and asked the possessor to show the relevant documents of loaded goods, the possessors of smuggled goods unable to produced any proof against loaded goods, after that the ASO sta seized the goods and bring the goods to State Warehouse.

gwadar customs seizes huge quantity of smuggled iranian diesel

customs court adjourns hearing of case field against smuggler LAHORE

M iMrAn MeHAr

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he Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and Anti-Smuggling has adjourned a bail plea of the accused who was arrested in a mobile smuggling case. Earlier, the Customs Taxation and Anti Smuggling Court had approved a 14-day judicial remand of the accused who was arrested by the customs authorities from Faisalabad. Sources told Customs Today, Tayyab Manzoor was booked by the Customs Preventive from Faisalabad International airport while he reached from Bahrain.

The suspect was travelling via flight of Gulf Airways. The Customs team arrested him and found 60 cell phones tactfully hidden in his bag.

Customs has registered a case against Tayyab and launched investigations against him after confiscating the cell phones that he was trying to smuggle. Customs Investigation and Prosecution team presented him before the judge of the customs court and asked him for his physical remand that the court has approved for two days for investigation to dig out the more accused behind the smuggling act. Sources said that value of the seized mobile phones is Rs5 million.

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KARACHI

MuBeen HuSSAin

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ustoms Collectorate Gwadar has seized a huge quantity of smuggled Iranian origin High Speed Diesel from different areas during the last three weeks.

According to the details, on the

directives of the Collector of Customs Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar Feroze Alam Junejo actions against smuggling of Iranian diesel have been further stepped up by the ofQicers. During a grand operation launched in the Panjgur, Turbat, Mand and Hub areas, the ofQicers of the Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar successfully seized a huge quantity of smuggled High Speed

Diesel. Sources informed Customs Today that during the grand operation the personnel of Frontier Corps (FC) Balochistan also participated in the raids against smugglers.

The ofQicers of the Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar during last three weeks have recovered seized 288,000 Liters of smuggled High Speed Diesel (HSD) of worth Rs.17.2 million. The operation is still underway and ex-

pected to yield better results by eventually curbing the unscrupulous elements involved in the illicit business of smuggling. The cases have been Qiled against the culprits and further investigation is underway. The ofQicials of the Model Customs Collectorate Gwadar are also conducting raids on the information of the arrested culprits to apprehend the master minds involved in the heinous crime.

Anf seizes 2.4 tonnes drugs worth rs 9.8 billion A

ISLAMABAD

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nti-Narcotics Force (ANF), in 19 countrywide operations against drug trafQicking, has seized Rs 9.8 billion worth of 2.4tonne of narcotics, including 1,635kg heroin, 781kg hashish, 30kg opium and 1.85kg amphetamine and also arrested 21 persons including a woman involved in drug smuggling and impounded seven

vehicles as well.

ANF Quetta in an intelligencebased operation conducted at Qilla Abdullah, seized 1,624kg Qine quality heroin by intercepting a Suzuki Pick-up. The ANF on receipt of information regarding smuggling of huge cache of heroin established a road check at the area of Killi Abdul Rehman Zai, Tehsil Gulistan, District Qilla Abdullah. During course of surveillance, a Suzuki Pick-up suddenly stopped at some distance from the ANF road check.

Suspecting the situation, ANF team approached the vehicle and took it into custody. However, persons onboard managed to flee from the scene leaving behind the vehicle. Search of the vehicle led to seizure of fine quality heroin weighing 1,624kg.

In another intelligence-based operation, ANF Quetta seized an unattended Toyota Pick-up near Sami Nullah, Hoshab Road, District Kech, recovering 8kg heroin concealed in its improvised cavities.

As per initial reports, the drug was meant for handing over to another narcotics gang.

In addition, ANF recovered 380g heroin from Saleh Mohammad and 350g heroin from possession of Sana Ullah, both residents of Quetta, arresting them separately near City Nullah Grammar School and Radio Station, Quetta respectively.

ANF Rawalpindi, while acting on a tipoff, intercepted a Toyota Corolla car at Taraki Toll Plaza, GT Road, Jhelum, and recovered 10kg hashish

from secret cavities of the car. A person on board, identiQied as Said Gul, resident of Peshawar, was also apprehended during the operation.

In another operation, ANF Rawalpindi apprehended a drug carrier, namely Mohammad Anwar, resident of Swabi, along with 300g heroin. He was arrested near Chungi No. 26, GT Road, Islamabad. Yet in another operation, ANF Rawalpindi recovered 450g hashish by arresting a local drug peddler identiQied as Ali Raza resident of Attock.

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Customs tribunal sets aside ONO in 100-tola gold smuggling case LAHORE: The Customs Appellate Tribunal set aside the Order-in-Original in a case of Collector of Customs (Appraisement), MCC, Customs House Lahore against Fakhra Rohi, a resident of Lahore.

Justice Retired Malik Manzoor Hussain, Chairman Customs Appellate Tribunal, remarks in the judgement that there is no mala fide show on the part of ASF Staff as they have immediately handed over the baggage and passenger concerned to the customs staff.

The appeal is allowed, impugned order is set aside and the charge levelled in the showcause notice stands established.

customs intelligence impounds prado valued rs08.5m

Saturday April 22, 2017

National

ecc defers summary to withdraw export incentives

ISLAMABAD

M fAiZAn

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irectorate General Customs Intelligence and Investigation Federal Board of Revenue Rawalpindi impounded a non-duty paid Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Model 2002, worth Rs8.5 million.

On a tip-off, the staff of the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation FBR Rawalpindi intercepted the said Prado with a registration plate No. LL-7723 (ICT Islamabad) having chassis No: VZ1121 0001871, Engine No. 5VZ FE (3378 cc), near KFC, Saddar Bazaar Rawalpindi. One Aqib Musa S/o Muammad Musa r/o Panjmiral, Shankiyari, tehsil and district, Mansehra was driving the vehicle.

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nAB arrests 23 officers in rs 100m insurance scam LAHORE

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he National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has arrested 23 accused officials of State Life Insurance Corporation, including a regional manager, in a scam of over Rs 100 million related to bogus policies.

According to a NAB spokesman, the accused caused the heavy loss through bogus insurance policies by opening 113 bank accounts and withdrawing cash against over 430 cheques. He said the accused officials facilitated fake policies to around 90 individuals who had never entered into any policy with State Life Insurance. He said a local government councillor was also among the arrested accused.To a question, he said the State Life Insurance Corporation management had approached NAB, Lahore, through an application and sought action against all those involved in the crime.

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ISLAMABAD

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he Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has deferred a summary for partially withdrawing incentives to exports to overcome growing shortfall in tax revenues.

The Ministry of Finance requested the ECC that the government should restore 5% customs duty and 4% sales tax on import of cotton, according to sources in the commerce ministry. The summary had been moved to generate an extra Rs10 billion revenue; by charging total 9% duties and taxes on imported cotton. The industry is compelled to import cotton due to shortfall of the commodity in the domestic market.

On January 10 of this year, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had announced the textile package in an attempt to boost exports that have been declining for the last four years. Under the package, sales tax, customs duty on import of textile machinery and cotton has been abolished.

However, the government’s decision to partially withdraw these incentives within three months of giving the package indicates growing Qiscal constraints.

For the current Qiscal year 201617, the government had assigned Rs3.621 trillion tax collection target to the Federal Board of Revenue

(FBR). However, from July through March this year, the FBR has sustained a shortfall of Rs168 billion, which it blames on changes in tax policies after the budget. During the current year, cotton production stood at only 10.54 million bales – which was 25% less than 14.1 million target set for this Qiscal year.

There is a minimum of three million bales shortfall that the industry will have to meet by importing cotton.

The industry needs imported cot-

The government had assigned rs3.621 trillion tax collection target to the federal Board of revenue fBr for fiscal year 2016-17

3g/4g users reach around 39.88m T

ISLAMABAD

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www.customsbulletin.com he number of 3G and 4G users in the country has reached 39.88 million by March this year, showing a reasonable growth with each passing month.

The number of mobile phone subscribers was 38.96 million during February 2017 and reached 39.88 till March this year, statistics released by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) showed.

The number of mobile phone users in the country reached 139.1 million by March this year from 137.8 million by end of February 2017, registering an increase of more than one million new users during the period under review.

As per details, the total 3G subscribers of Jazz – the merged company formed from Mobilink and Warid – reached 12.4 million and 0.8 million 4G users by end of March 2017. Zong’s 3G subscribers reached 7.8 million and

3.4 million 4G users during March 2017 as compared to 7.6 million 3G users and 3.1 million 4G users by end of February this year.

Moreover, in 3G area Telenor crossed 10.5 million users and in 4G domain reached 0.323 million.

Ufone subscribers registered decline as its 3G users decreased to 4.7 million till March 2017 from 4.87 million by February this year. Warid LTE had a subscriber’s base of 637,363 by March 2017.

ton until the next crop arrives.

Meanwhile, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has ruled out to introduce amnesty scheme for the owners of offshore companies.

Refuting a news item published in an English daily, a senior FBR ofQicial, seeking anonymity, said that no law is being introduced to give amnesty to protect the offshore assets of the owners and a news in this regard published in an English newspaper is not correct.

progress being made to oust corrupt officers urther progress has been made to oust from Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officers and personnel with bad reputation. According to Interior Ministry, the purge in FIA was being carried out on the orders of Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan.

An inquiry committee comprising senior officers of Intelligence Bureau, ISI and FIA recommended investigation of assets of 20 officers of FIA.

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Sindh University to organise int’l conference on CPEC HYDERABAD: The management of University of Sindh Jamshoro has finalised all arrangements to organise three days long international conference on the theme “ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor: Political, Economic and Social perspectives.

The conference is being held under the banner of Area Study Centre Far East and Southeast Asia of the varsity; which will be presided over by Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal at the Auditorium of Faculty of Pharmacy, the university spokesman informed. University of Sindh Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Fateh Muhammad Burfat would also address the inaugural session.

Saturday April 22, 2017

Business

SBp studying `blockchain’ technology KARACHI

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he State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is currently studying ‘blockchain’ technology solution model being adopted by central and commercial banks at globe to keep electronic Qinancial transactions protected from cyber crimes.

This was stated by the SBP’s Executive Director-Banking Supervision Group, Inayat Hussain.

He was of the view that central banks of some countries have adopted the latest technology and experimenting new things these days.

“We may adopt the system (blockchain) to facilitate trades. Banks

industrial sector at 7.7 per cent by 2019 KARACHI

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he World Bank has projected the growth of Pakistan’s industrial sector at 7.7 per cent by 2019. According to the twice-a-year South Asia Economic Focus report, the growth of industrial sector by the end of current fiscal year is estimated to remain at 6.1 per cent in Fiscal Year 2017 while in 2018 it would grow at 7.0 per cent. Large Scale Manufacturing (LSM) growth (Year-oYear ) remained at 3.9 percent during the first half of FY2017, supported by growth in automobiles,construction, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and fertilizer.

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may approach the State Bank of Pakistan and tell if they want to use the new technology anytime,” he said.

Hussain said this while speaking at

the 15th Innovative Diebold Nixdorf ebanking 2017 conference organized

by Total Communications in collaboration with Pakistan Software Houses

Association (PASHA) on Wednesday, the organizers of the event said in a statement. It pointed out that the SBP is about to revive forums like CIOs to timely detect cyber crimes and threats and address them on time. He said the central bank has last updated payment system rules in October 2016.

“Since then we have provided permission to three entities to play their role as PSO/PSPs (Payment System Operators and Service Providers)”, Hussain remarked. Initially banks were slow towards adopting new technology, but now they are doing it as per international practices, he said. Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, Member, Syed AliRaza Shah, maintained that the government would provide mobile internet services to every nook and corner by December 2018.

9 industrial zones to be set up along cpec rout in 3 years A

ISLAMABAD

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s many as nine industrial zones have been planned to be set up along the rout of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) from Gwadar to Chitral to utilize the natural resources throughout the country.

“These industrial zones would be set up in a period of two to three years with the ownership of the respective provinces”, ofQicial sources in Ministry of Planning.

The sources informed that provincial governments have speeded up homework on implementation of these zones, planned to be set up under industrial cooperation between China and Pakistan, being introduced with successful implantation of projects in energy and transport infrastructure sector.

“To take advantage of Pakistan’s natural resources, economic zones will be established under CPEC, one each in all the four provinces, FATA, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and two by the Federal Government in Islamabad Capital Territory and

Port Qasim at Karachi”.

The 6th Joint Cooperation Committee held last year had approved nine special economic zones directing the joint work group on industry to ensure its speedy implementation. It is hoped that relocation of Chinese labour intensive industry would help in generating huge employment in Pakistan.

Furthermore, the sources added that the government had executed its plan of utilizing untapped coal reserves in Thar, a black gold which has a capacity to produce power for 400 years.

Budgets to be based on 7th nfc award LAHORE

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rovincial Finance Minister Dr Ayesha Ghaus Pasha has said the Punjab will prepare the budged based on old National Finance Commission (NFC), as Islamabad is not holding any further inter-provincial meeting for next NFC award before the budget. She expressed these remarks while addressing a pre-budget seminar on Monday.

The seminar was organised by Lahore Economic Journalists Association (LEJA). LEJA President Zahid Abid, Vice President Ashraf Mehtab, General Secretary Shahram Haq and other members were also present at the occasion. Dr Ayesha said that the Punjab has a loins share, as it has around 57 percent share in national GDP; however, lack of coordination between provincial and federal departments is affecting provincial tax to GDP ratio. She said that recent property taxes in federal budget 2016-17 have also affected provincial revenues as people tend to find alternate measures. She said that unfortunately tax culture is missing in Pakistan. Despite an increase in the country tax net and 42pc increase in Punjab Revenue Authority’s tax collections, a lot of ground has yet to be covered by federal as well as provincial tax collecting agencies.

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over rs479m released for revenue division projects ISLAMABAD

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he government has so far released Rs479.713 million for various projects of Revenue Division out of its total allocations of Rs687.304 earmarked in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for the Qiscal year 2016-17.

Out of the total amount released, Rs242.9 million have been released

for development of Integrated Transit Trade Management System (ITTMS) under ADB Regional Improving Border Service Project, according to ofQicial data.

The government has earmarked Rs347 million for this project under the development fund of the current year. The government also released Rs105 million for establishment of Inland Revenue ofQices in Pakistan for which an amount of Rs150 million would be spent during the current Qis-

cal year. An amount of Rs25 million have been released for feasibilities of MMC Gwadar, Regional Tax OfQice Islamabad and Sargodha and Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation IR Karachi. Similarly, an amount of Rs19 million have been released for construction for warehouse and sepoy barracks for Model Customs Collectorate, Peshawar for which an amount of Rs25.41 million have been earmarked in the current Qiscal year.

The government also released

Rs21.626 million for construction of new accommodation and overhead water tank in the premises of FBR Complex Spiny Road Quetta. The total allocations for the project have been Qixed at Rs30.569 million.

A sum of Rs25.401 million have been released for construction of additional block for Regional Tax OfQice (RTO) at Gujranwala on which Rs38.899 million would be spent during the current year. In addition, the government released Rs17.765 mil-

lion for project for security improvement in Karachi Port and Port Qasim for installation of three Qixed and one mobile scanner with assistance of JICA. As many as Rs26.378 million would be spent on the project during the current Qinancial year, according to the data. An amount of Rs14.532 have been released for installation of Elevator at Custom House Lahore while Rs4.490 million have been released for construction of boundary wall around customs land at Chilmas Das Gilgit.

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ISLAMABAD TAriQ DerYA www.customsbulletin.com

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he Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) Peshawar showed a hundred-time high performance during the current Financial Year FY2016-17 with the impounded goods and vehicles valued Rs1700.00million whereas the ASO seized worth Rs700.00million smuggled goods during same period of corresponding year 2015-16. The ASO seized NonDuty-Paid offending vehicles (Vehicles used for smuggling purposes) and smuggled goods valued Rs192.43million during the 1st of April to 15th of April of Financial Year (FY) 2016-17. The ASO Peshawar made a huge seizure of smuggled goods during the current Qinancial year as compared to the corresponding Qinancial year.

According to details told by Deputy Collector Zakir Muhammad while giving an exclusive interview to Customs today, he pointed out that during the 1st of April to 15th of April FY2016-17, the ASO seized various kinds of smuggled goods valued Rs61.43million whereas the ASO impounded 17 offending vehicles valued Rs31.43million. The DC said that during said period, the ASO Peshawar impounded seven NDP vehicles worth Rs100.00million. The Customs Anti-Smuggling Organization Peshawar arrested 35 persons due to involvement in anti-smuggling activities and convicted 37 persons for involvement in same act during the Qirst nine

months from July to March of Financial Year 2016-17. He said the ASO Peshawar seized smuggled gold, goods and Non-Duty-Paid (NDP) offending vehicles (vehicles used for carrying smuggled goods) worth Rs1797.488million during nine months (July to March) of Financial Year (FY) 2016-17 adding that the ASO Peshawar seized 32.821 kilogram of gold/silver worth

Rs125.400million whereas it seized 345 numbers of offending vehicles worth Rs482.000million and the ASO seized 209 offending vehicles worth Rs482.000 million.

Zakir said that the ASO Peshawar seized betel nuts/puppy seeds weighed 2784 kilograms valued Rs1.05 million whereas the ASO seized a weapon worth Rs0.03million during nine months of current Qinancial year. The ASO seized 113,886 kilogram of tea worth Rs40.719million and it also seized 2678 miscellaneous auto parts valued Rs27.274million. The ASO also seized 5189 tyres and tubes worth Rs19.381million whereas it seized 256 bottles of Mobil oil worth Rs0.912million and the ASO seized 27089 litres of Mobil oil worth Rs10.225million and the ASO seized 78 buckets of grease worth Rs0.016million. The ASO seized 239,999 cartons of foreign origin fake cigaion t rettes worth Rs33.113million. a z i n orga g The DC ASO Peshawar said the n i l to gg s due n ASO Peshawar seized 4631 ti-Smu o n s r A e s 35 p d g numbers of electronic goods e custom t n i s l re gg war ar i-smu worth Rs19.225million t r n o a f s n pesha son nt i r e e whereas the ASO seized 120 p m e 7 v d3 invol the numbers of antiques worth nvicte g o n c i r d u n ies a Rs1.80million adding that the e act d rch of activit in sam t n to Ma e ASO seized 250,287 numbers y l m u e J v l m invo of pirated CDs/DVDs worth ths fro -17 e mon n i r 2016 Rs.9.911 million and it also n a t e Y l firs a ci seized 11698 kilogram of scrape finan worth Rs.4.279 million during 09 months (July to March) FY16-17 of current Qinancial year.

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Saturday, April 22, 2017

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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

general economic performance

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ccording to various international organizations, key economic indicators of the country are improving, the consumer price index has dramatically come down, foreign exchange reserves are increasing and a growth rate of 5.5 percent has been achieved.

Reports also indicate overall increase in the purchasing power of the citizens which is evident by 25 percent increase in sale of motorcycles, at least 20 percent increase in car sale and increase in the energy consumption by 20 percent during the last couple of years. On another note, a thriving construction industry has increased production and sale of cement, steel, aluminum, and other related goods.

According to a recent survey conducted by a European organization, disposable income has doubled in in Pakistan in six years and spending by local consumer has risen to 83 percent as compared to 49 percent in other countries in the region. The Pakistan stock exchange has emerged as the best performer in Asia, showing 52 percent rise in the volume of trade and is also performing better than Indian and Chinese markets. International financial experts hope the Pakistani stocks would soon be reclassified as the investor friendly emerging market basket whereas six firms are likely be added to the FTSE’s Global Equity Asia Pacific index. According a report by the State Bank of Pakistan, various national banks have earned profit according to their basic capital and deposits. At least $20 billion annual remittances sent home by Pakistani diaspora last year has increased the profit margin of the banks up to 10 percent.

Experts believe Pakistan has enough financial resources to go without the International Monetary Fund. The condition of foreign exchange reserves is stable and the government has raised around $1.7 billion from the sale of national assets. However, weaker exports and higher imports are an area of concern which has created balance of payment problem. The government is under pressure to privatize the Pakistan Steel Mills and the state flag carrier Pakistan International Airlines which are burden on the national economy. As a matter of fact, the government is unable to sell public sector organizations due to various reasons. The matter of privatization has already been politicized and absence of genuine buyers is another hindrance in the way of sale.

potentials of iT sector T

LAHORE

Dr AfTAB AfZAL

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he IT sector is the future of Pakistan’s economy, but it is may be the least priority of the government. The sector, which includes software development, smart phone applications, games, networking and various other programming, has the current annual income of $3 billion. The total earnings of the country was $30 million one and half decades ago, but it has grown considerably today. However, the country has the potential to dominate the international market and it is the best sector with vast opportunities for the

youth. The telecom sector has grown from 0.3 million users to 150 million in one and half decades. The technology is developing with every passing day, but the policymakers of the country are not ready to accept any change. There is potential in youth and they want encouragement. The private sector is aloof to any national building efforts even it earns billions of rupees annual profit from the people of Pakistan.

The government is the only hope for the youth to get a level playing field in this IT sector.

And the government has its own merits and demerits.

At least 20,000 software engineers enter the IT job market annually in Pakistan which has

over 2500 registered organizations.Online work is becoming increasingly popular among the software experts in the country who face major issues in the transfer of money. An online bank having its branches in India and elsewhere is not allowed to operate in Pakistan.

The transfer of money from the software clients to Pakistan from all around the world is the major obstacle. Why the ministry of information technology, commerce ministry or finance ministry are oblivion to the problems faced by the online engineers is unimaginable.

There online jobbers have no guarantee if they would get the money against their work or not. The country’s share of

global IT sales is $3 billion and half of which is earned through the exports of software and ITenabled services.

The IT industry is the shortcut to progress and no one can stop Pakistan from becoming the software hub of the world.

But it could be only be possible if the government allocates enough funds and resources to encourage youth to work from the country instead of encouraging brain drain. Pakistan needs its youth to stay within the country and help in the national building programme.It is another story if the government has failed to announce any national building programme during its three and half years tenure.

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World Bank confirms huge increase in Iran trade surplus TEHRAN: Iran has registered a huge increase in its current account surplus from 2.7% of GDP in 2015 to 6.5% of GDP in 2017, the World Bank has said. According to WB’s Economic Monitor report for the MENA region published on Tuesday, Iran is one of two countries in the Middle East and North Africa that are expected to register a high current account surplus in 2017 and the only country with a fiscal deficit of less than 1 % of GDP in that year. The global institution indicated that Iran’s growth in 2016 is estimated to have reached 6.4%, following a 1.8% contraction in the previous year, resulting from higher growth in the mining, manufacturing, services and agriculture sectors. Oil exports have increased significantly due to an increase in production from 3.2 million barrels per day in 2015 to 3.7 million in 2016, which is expected to reach 4.2 million barrels in 2017.

More exhibitors participate in My karachi expo: kcci president KARACHI

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esides many local companies, exhibitors from Russia, Belarus, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Romania, Ukraine, Malaysia, Iran, Turkey, Thailand and Indonesia are participating in 3-day “My Karachi : Oasis of Harmony “ international trade exhibition scheduled to start from April at Karachi Expo Centre. Thailand has also booked 30 stalls and Indonesia has reserved 10 stalls for establishing huge pavilions, President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Shamim Ahmed Firpo said in a statement on Thursday. The expo

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would continue till April and the timing would be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. The entry in exhibition is free.

One million visitors were expected in three days. KCCI had been organising this international trade event since 2004, which had won recognition from the business world and the participation of domestic and foreign exhibitors was increasing every year, he said. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah would inaugurate 14th edition of “My Karachi : Oasis of Harmony” exhibition at 9:30am on Friday.

KCCI Chief said My Karachi exhibition had succeeded in achieving its objectives of promoting the positive image of Pakistan especially of Karachi and introduce ‘Made in Pakistan’ products worldwide. He appreciated the support extended by Sindh Government, Governor Sindh and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan for making this event successful.

Saturday April 22, 2017

Chambers

Lpg association asks fBr, ogrA to curb smuggling of fake Lpg T

LAHORE

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he LPG Association of Pakistan has requested the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Petroleum, the Federal Board of Revenue and Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority to take urgent measures to address both import and smuggling of low quality, spurious and adulterated LPG in the country through land route of Taftan and Mand. It said that smuggling of LPG is not only hurting the local producers, but is also posing serious environmental and health risk Since there is no check on quality of LPG imported into the country through land routes of Taftan and Mand, the LPG import from these points is flooding the country.

The demand was raised at an emergent meeting of LPGAP presided by its Chairman Farooq Iftikhar. LPGAP members on the occasion stressed on taking immediate measures by the authorities to address the issue. Iftikhar, said that import and smuggling of low quality, spurious and adulterated LPG is not only affecting sale of local good

quality LPG, but is also creating severe environmental and health issues amongst the low income citizens of the country.

He said that Minister of Petroleum & Ministry of Finance should take serious notice of import and smuggling of adulterated & dangerous LPG through land route as it was also causing Qinancial loss to national exchequer.

Farooq Iftikhar said that curbing import of low quality, spurious and

adulterated LPG injurious to human health will also help in lessening LPG related accidents from happening.

The Chairman LPGAP said that some unscrupulous importers are selling this cheap LPG to unregistered players who besides playing with the lives of the masses, and wasting valuable foreign exchange also cause substantial revenue loss to the Government. Substantial Import of LPG through land routes of low quality LPG, has taken place because of Gov-

Shah inaugurates 14th My karachi – oasis of Harmony exhibition

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KARACHI

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hief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah has said that the glories and vibrancies of Karachi have been restored to a certain extent which can be gauged from the fact that many foreign companies have been approaching Sindh government to seek assistance on setting up industries here.

“Hotels in Karachi are overloaded with foreigners which is a positive sign. With the help of business and industrial community of Karachi, we will be able to fully restore the glory of Karachi”, he added while speaking as Chief Guest at the Inaugural Ceremony of 14th My Karachi – Oasis of Harmony Exhibition organized at

Karachi Expo Center by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). Sindh Minister for Industries Manzoor Hussain Wassan, Chairman Businessmen Group & Former President KCCI Siraj Kassam Teli, Vice Chairman BMG Tahir Khaliq, Zubair Motiwala and Anjum Nisar, President KCCI Shamim Ahmed Firpo, Senior Vice President Asif Nisar, Vice President Muhammad Younus Soomro, Former Presidents AQ Khalil, Haroon Bari, Abdullah Zaki, Younus Muhammad Bashir, CEO TDAP S.M. Muneer and KCCI Managing Committee members along with exhibitors were also present at the ceremony.

Murad Ali Shah further stated that without the progress of Karachi, progress and prosperity for entire Pakistan cannot be ensured. Finally,

the signiQicance of Karachi has been realized by even those people who once thought that they can move forward by leaving behind Karachi which was their mistake. “Pakistan cannot prosper without giving the deserving position to Karachi and this fact has now been realized by everyone”, he added. In response to concerns expressed over Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC), he said that GIDC has been imposed to gather funds for some alternate schemes and to equalize the LNG prices. “It was totally unfair to charge GIDC so I raised this issue at the last CCI meeting in December 2016 and will further raise the same in the next CCI meeting”, he assured, adding that unfortunately, it has been more than 3 months but the meeting of Council of Common Interest (CCI) has not taken place.

ernment’s slackness to match price of the local product in light of huge fall in CP price of LPG promptly.

However, we thank the Government for reducing its prices recently, but it must reduce price further by another Rs. 5000 per MT to discourage low quality imports. Pricing should be such that only that quantity of LPG is imported as to cater to the difference between supply and demand and not be over imported and threaten the local producers.

Bunzl revenues rise 18% on acquisition spree number of acquisitions and favourable exchange rates pushed Bunzl’s revenue in the first three months of 2017 up 18pc, the firm said today. The distribution company’s overall trading was consistent with guidance it gave in February, it commented. Its revenue was up 18pc on the same period last year, although discounting currency movements the increase would only have been 4pc. Around 3pc of this came from acquisitions and new business. “The underlying revenue growth is mainly due to the previously announced additional business won, albeit at lower margins, in North America towards the end of 2016,” Bunzl said. It has made five acquisitions already this year, spending £260m, which it hopes will add £330m of revenue to its total. –CB Report

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Customs Inspector Aurangzeb retires Saturday April 22, 2017

Islamabad rashid Habib assumes charge as Addl collector in peshawar ISLAMABAD

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ISLAMABAD: Muhammad Aurangzeb Shah, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-16, has retired from the government service on attaining the age of superannuation. The officer, presently posted as Inspector Preventive Service at Model Customs Meanwhile, Syed Javed Hussain Sherazi, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-17, has been granted 365-day leave before retirement. The officer, presently posted as Superintendent at Model Customs Collectorate, Faisalabad, has been granted leave preparatory to retirement with effect from May 10, 2017.

pM sets aside customs officer Misbah’s major penalty P

ISLAMABAD

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ashid Habib Khan, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-19, has assumed charge as Additional Collector at Model Customs Collectorate, Peshawar. Rashid Habib, in pursuance of Board’s Notification No.0905-C-II/2017 dated 16.03.2017, relinquished the charge of the post of Additional Collector, Collectorate of Customs (Adjudication), Peshawar with effect from April 3. Meanwhile, Shoukat Ali, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-19, has assumed charge as Additional Collector (Preventive) in Karachi. The officer, in pursuance of Board’s Notification No.0905-C-II/2017 dated 16.03.2017, relinquished the charge of the post of Additional Director, Directorate of Input Output Co-efficient Organisation (North), Lahore with effect from March 27 and took the charge of the post of Additional Collector, Model Customs Collectorate (Preventive), Karachi.

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Appraising officer Sarah Ahmed resigns arah Ahmed, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-16, has resigned from the government service. The competent authority has accepted the resignation tendered by Sarah Ahmed, last posted as Appraising officer at Model Customs Collectorate of Appraisement, Lahore, with immediate effect. Meanwhile, Javed Sarwar, a Pakistan Customs Service officer of BS-16, is going to retire from the government service on attaining the age of superannuation. The officer, presently posted as Appraiser at Model Customs Collectorate of Appraisement-West, Karachi, will stand retired from the government service with effect from May 2. –CB Report

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rime Minister Nawaz Sharif has set aside major penalty of ‘removal from service’ imposed on Misbah Khatana, a BS-19 ofQicer of Pakistan Customs Service.

The ofQicer was removed from Service vide FBR’s NotiQication No.1678-C-I/2016 dated 02.08.2016. She Qiled a departmental appeal to the Appellate Authority/Prime Minister against the major penalty of “removal from service”. The prime minister, in his capacity as Appellate Authority within the meaning of Rule 2(a)(1)(i) of Civil Servants (Appeals) Rules, 1977, accepted her appeal and set-aside the penalty in terms of Rule 6(1)(c) ibid.

The PM has further approved

that her absence from duty from July 1, 2015 till completion of her PhD will be treated as extra-ordi-

nary leave (EOL).

The ofQicer has been reinstated into service and was granted 2099-

day leave without pay from July 1, 2015 to September 30, 2020 for completion of her PhD.

Dry port earns rs59m more customs duty T

ISLAMABAD

TAriQ DerYA

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he Islamabad Dry Port (IDP) earned Rs59.00million more Customs Duty during nine and a half months (July to 15th of April) Financial Year 2016-17.

The IDP collected Rs2599million Customs Duty during above said period against the revised assigned target of Rs2540million for said period.

According to details told by Assistant Collector IDP Amanat Khan, most of the imports through IDP comprised fabric which came from China adding that the other mostly imports comprised auto parts which came from different parts of the word.

He said that during initial 15 days of April, the IDP collected Rs144.508million CD whereas the IDP was assigned Rs331.00million revised revenue target adding that the IDP was previously assigned Rs270million target for current month but he assured to meet the revised assigned target

of April FY2016-17.

He said the IDP earned Rs2455million Customs Duty during nine months of Financial Year 2016-17. During the Qirst three

quarters, the dry port was assigned Rs2208million Customs Duty. In this way, the dry port stays surplus with Rs247million proQit against the assigned target.

The dry port collected Rs771.00million CD during the month of March 2016-17 against the assigned target of Rs585.00million.

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Four meetings scheduled to fix Customs values of different items KARACHI: With the aim to determine customs values of several items, the Directorate General of Customs Valuation has scheduled four meetings with the stakeholders, including importers, traders and industry representatives.

According to the schedule on four meetings would be held with the representatives of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), importers and manufacturers of Ethylene Hexano; Bifenthrin, Fipronol, Carbofuran; Tylosin, Colistin Sulphate and Glass Ware/Kitchen Ware at 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:00 and 11:30 respectively.

SHc orders release of luxury vehicle against security deposit KARACHI

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indh High Court of Sindh (SHC) has ordered release of a luxury Range Rover against a security of Rs17.4 million. An appellate bench of Sindh High Court of Sindh (SHC) comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Arshad Hussain heard the case. The bench was hearing a constitutional petition filed by owner of the said vehicle which was seized by the Anti Smuggling Organisation (ASO) of Pakistan Customs allegedly for being smuggled one.

Ms Dil Khurram Shaheen advocate appearing for the petitioner side claims that the vehicle was duly registered by the Motor Vehicle Registration authorities and now its seizure is illegal. Masooda Siraj advocate appearing for the

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respondent questioned the registration and said petitioner shall come up with import documents in respect of vehicle to establish that it was legally imported and lawfully registered in the country. She submitted the copies of the notice under section 171 of Customs Act 1969. Meanwhile, Sindh High Court (SHC) has admitted appeals against order/decree issued by a single judge of SHC who decreed in favor of textile mills and others holding that exemption is available to them on operating generators. SHC appellate bench comprising Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi and Justice Nazar Akbar. The suit was decreed by Justice Junaid Ghaffar who besides allowing exemption also ordered federal board of revenue to refund the differential amount paid by the plaintiffs. The bench accepting the appeal filed by the department argued

by Masooda Siraj advocate fixed April for hearing the same.

Karachi

influx of smuggled goods increases as pakistan-Afghan border opened

customs ASo shows tremendous performance during last 20 days KARACHI

MuBeen HuSSAin

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ustoms Intelligence and investigation (I&I) Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) has shown tremendous performance during the last 20 days as it has launched a grand operation against smugglers and customs duty evaders across the city. During several raids, the ASO teams impounded 31 non-duty paid luxury vehicles and registered cases against the suspects. The ASO officers also seized more than 40,000 liters smuggled diesel in the operations.

Sources told Customs Today that the worth of seized vehicle and diesel is Rs 80 million . The First Information Reports have also been registered against the suspects involved in smuggling.

The higher authorities have asked the officers of Customs Intelligence and investigation (I&I) Anti Smuggling Organization (ASO) to continue the pace of work in future. On the other hand, they have appreciated the performance shown by the ASO during operations.

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akistan Customs has expedited its efforts against the movement of smuggled goods, and in several operations worth millions of rupees were seized. The inQlux of smuggled goods has surged after the Pakistan-Afghanistan border was opened. InQlux of smuggled goods has multi-pronged impacts on the country’s economy. On one hand the national exchequer is deprived of its legitimate revenue while on the other hand, local manufacturers and law-abiding importers come at a disadvantage. Moreover, money made from this dirty business fund anti-social and terrorist elements.

Quite recently, Directorate of Customs Intelligence & Investigation seized large quantity if smuggled goods worth Rs92 million. MCC Islamabad seized large quantity of smuggled mobile phones worth Rs7.0 million and MCC Quetta conQiscated used/old tyres valuing Rs1.25 million.

On information of Mohammad Saleem Director I&I Peshawar, Directorate of Intelligence and investigation Deputy Director Khayal Mo-

Saturday April 22, 2017

hammad intercepted three trucks, with the assistance of Peshawar Police, near entry point of Motorway M1. The trucks were going to Lahore from Khyber agency. Peshawar Police has been quite efQicient and honest. The seized goods include cigarettes, gutka, refrigeration gas, window ACs, mobile phones 6900 and welding rods valuing Rs92 millions and that of trucks is Rs9.0 million. This is the largest seizure of smuggled goods in recent history of the Directorate. Further investiga-

tion is underway to arrest the smuggling network operating in the region. It may be mentioned here that these goods landed at Port Bandar Abbas transported to Afghanistan and them smuggled into Pakistan.

Meanwhile, M/s Arsalam & Company, Taftan imported a consignment of old and used tyres from Iran and Qiled a Transshipment (TP) to NLC Dry Port. MCC Quetta refused the TP as the imported goods are in violation of Import Policy Order and seized the commodity worth Rs1.25 million.

SHc dismisses Zeal pak cement’s for release of consignment

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KARACHI

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Sindh High Court bench has rejected an application Qiled by Zeal Pak Cement Factory Ltd for release of consignment.

During the hearing, the Appellate Bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Arshad Hussain Khan, heard Advocate Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam, counsel for petitioner/applicant in petition 2/2017.

The counsel referred to an order dated January 31, 2017 allowing provisional release of the consignment imported for a project. He told the bench that a part of the con-

signment was detained by the DIT ofQicials. Replying another query that how the application being heard is connected to the petition above, the counsel for petitioner submitted that under the garb of previous order, respondent Custom ofQicials are assessing the new imports at a rate of $34 as against $20 (claimed by the petitioner side).

The bench observed that petition 2/2017 was very speciQic in nature and subsequent imports do not relate to it. The bench with the above observation dismissed the application and said petitioner is free to take appropriate proceedings for new, subsequent imports.

Meanwhile, The Sindh High Court

(SHC) restrained the tax department form enforce impugned recovery of Rs122.731 million from petitioner on a constitutional petition Qiled by M/s Sunrise Plastic Industries Private Limited against impugned demand notice issued by tax authorities. During the hearing of petition, a two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi also issued notices to tax department and attorney general and directing them to Qile their respective para wise comments for April 2017. During the hearing, counsel for the petitioner submitted that pursuant to order under section 122 (1) of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001, for the tax year 2014 passed by the respondents, pe-

titioner has preferred an appeal along with stay application before commissioner Inland Revenue Appeals IV, he further submitted that in date mentioned in the demand notice for payment of tax is expiring today and there is apprehension that the respondents may adopt coercive action for the recovery of the impugned demand by attachment of bank account of the petitioner. Citing Secretary Ministry of Law, chairman Federal Board of Revenue, commissioner Inland Revenue, Zone-III, Large Taxpayers Unit, deputy commissioner Inland Revenue Audit Unit-II Zone-III Large Taxpayers Unit-II as respondents, petitioner pleaded the court may restrain them.

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Qatar World Cup 2022 organisers slash budget by up to 50% Saturday April 22, 2017

World

DOHA: Qatar has reportedly slashed its budget for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup by up to 50 percent.

The Gulf state, which had planned for 12 stadiums in its original bid, is now proposing eight, it was reported. Hassan Al Thawadi, secretary general of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy organising the tournament, told CNNMoney the original budget had been reduced by between 40-50 percent. “We wanted to ensure there is financial responsibility in relation to the infrastructure relating to the World Cup,” he was quoted as saying. CNNMoney reported tournament infrastructure will cost between $8-$10 billion, with most of the money earmarked for stadiums and training grounds.

central Bank destroys indonesian police nabs 2 360m AfS in bank notes Taiwanese over drug trafficking KABUL

JAKARTA

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wo Taiwanese nationals were arrested at the international airport in

Switzerland, uk discuss post-Brexit free trade talks alks on the post-Brexit relationship between Switzerland and the UK are underway, according to the Swiss Federal Council. Swiss Federal Councillor Johann N Schneider-Ammann met the UK’s Trade Secretary Liam Fox for a working meeting on Swiss-UK relations after the UK leaves the EU. As part of the Federal Council’s “Mind the Gap” strategy, it will seek to reach a post-Brexit follow-up agreement with the UK as swiftly as possible. According to the Council, Fox said this was in the UK’s interests and that reaching such an arrangement with Switzerland is a priority. Schneider-Ammann and Fox agreed to meet on a regular basis. The Federal Council explained that, as Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty provides for a twoyear withdrawal negotiation period, the timeframe for preparing a follow-up regime for relations between Switzerland and the UK is tight. –CB Report

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Jakarta, Indonesia in mid after they were found trying to smuggle nearly 4 kilograms of amphetamine into that country, Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) said Wednesday.

The bureau said the arrests were the result of cooperation between Taiwanese and Indonesian police,

who discovered a total of 3,776 grams of amphetamine that were tied on the legs of the two young men, both at their 20s, during customs checks at the airport.

The two men, one surnamed Lai and the other Huang, flew from Taiwan to Jakarta that day, the CIB said. It had informed Indonesian police of possible drug smuggling by travelers from Taiwan earlier that day based on information that a drug ring was recruiting young people with lucrative cash awards to travel in and out of Taiwan with drugs, the bureau said. Meanwhile, Two Taiwanese teenagers were caught red handed by police at Taoyuan International Airport last Sunday for smuggling amphetamines worth NT$60 million (US$1.98 million) to New Zealand during the second day of Taiwan’s Tomb-Sweeping Day which runs from This is the first reported case of Taiwanese high school students involved in global drug trafficking operations.

french president eyes strong trade ties between france-Singapore

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rench President Francois Hollande, on an official visit to Singapore, expressed a desire Sunday to strengthen France’s partnership with the Southeast Asian city-state. “France considers Singapore not only for an economic partner, but also as a friendly country,” Hollande said at a state banquet, where he gave a toast in French. “In this geopolitical environment of isolation, nationalism and protectionism, we

have to lead by example and make our bilateral partnership not only strong and dynamic, but to show the way for opening confidence in international trade,” added Hollande, making the first official visit by a French president to Singapore. The two countries signed a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership in 2012 to deepen cooperation in areas such as TRADE AND INVESTMENT, defense and space technology. –CB Report

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fghanistan’s Central Bank burned 360 million AFs worth of worn-out bank notes on which has brought the total in the past 11 years to 41 billion AFs. Afghans rely heavily on the bank notes, as consumers pay cash for almost everything they buy.

As such, the lifespan of bank notes is not very long, officials said. Central Bank officials did not however register the serial numbers of the worn-out bank notes ahead of Monday’s move and said registering serial numbers was difficult and time consuming.

“It is difficult to inject bank notes based on its serial number into the market and then burn it according to the number,” said Qasim Rahimi, second deputy head

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of the Central Bank.

Meanwhile a number of banking experts blasted officials for this and said the serial numbers of worn-out bank notes should be registered before destruction otherwise they could easily be put back into circulation.

“Worn-out money should be burned according to its serial number and by a team made up of various departments in a transparent way to prevent corruption,” said Taj Mohammad Akbar, former head of Pashtany Bank, (a private bank).

The institution overseeing the process to destroy the bank notes said they first go to the Central Bank and after counting the bank notes, transfer them to the store and then burn the worn-out bank notes.

“Yesterday we checked and packed the money and today we are here to burn it,” said Muhammad Arif Musazai, head of payment department of finance ministry.

canada-Qatar business council soon n an important step to enhance trade and investment ties between Qatar and Canada, plans are under way to set up a joint business council soon. Canada-Qatar Business Council will be launched in September- October this year, says Adrian Norfolk, Canadian Ambassador to Qatar. Trade and investment are among a range of areas Canada is seeking to develop with Qatar, according to Norfolk. Canada is also looking forward to building on existing partnerships with Qatar in areas such as diplomacy, defence, security, education and health. Referring to bilateral ties as “really

good and growing,” Norfolk said the relationship is centred on mutual respect, cooperation on the international stage, SHARED TRADE and investment interests, and contributions by individual Canadians and Canadian organisations towards Qatar National Vision 2030. “It’s quite a wide range of areas that we seek to develop, from security, trade and investment consular services, and people to people relationship.

Qatar is also doing humanitarian and development work at many places and it’s a potential area where we have shared interests as well,” Norfolk told. –CB Report

Toyota recalls 2.9m vehicles globally over airbags

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oyota Motor Corp (7203.T) on said it was recalling a total of about 2.9 million vehicles in Japan, China, Oceania and other regions including its Corolla Axio sedan and RAV4 SUV crossover due to potentially faulty airbag inQlators.

Fuji Heavy Industries (7270.T), the maker of Subaru cars, Mitsubishi Motors Corp (7211.T) and truck maker Hino Motors (7205.T) also recalled a total of about 240,000 vehicles in the domestic market over inQlators made by Takata Corp (7312.T) which can explode after prolonged exposure to hot conditions. At least 16 deaths have been linked to exploding Takata inQlators,

mainly in the United States, prompting the auto industry’s biggest-ever global recall.

Global transport authorities consider Takata inQlators containing the chemical compound ammonium nitrate to be unsafe if used without a drying agent, and have ordered all of the about 100 million on the market to be withdrawn.

The Japanese automakers said

that the latest recalls were part of a wider recall of Takata inQlators ordered by global transport authorities last year.

Toyota said that recalls were issued for about 1.16 million vehicles sold in Oceania, the Middle East and the automaker’s smaller markets, nearly one-third of total, while about 750,000 vehicles had been recalled in Japan.

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Singapore furniture fair attracts 22,000 traders SINGAPORE: The 2017 International Furniture Fair Singapore, held in conjunction with the 34th Asean Furniture Show, drew 21,966 trade professionals from the furniture, interior design and furnishings industries, according to results released this week. The visitors included 87 buying delegations from 92 countries from around Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. In the past, the show spanned more than 600,000 square feet, over six halls. Despite the condensed space, there were nearly 80 more exhibitors at this year’s event compared to 2016. “From a business point of view, IFFS has to redefine itself in order to remain relevant and sustainable, and to continue serving the international furniture ecosystem as a premier sourcing platform,” said Ernie Koh, chairman of IFFS Pte Ltd.

Dhaka back on Malaysian customs’ sight after metha seizure haka is back on the Customs’ radar after 15.56 kilogram of methamphetamine that was flown in from there was seized from three Indian nationals in a house in Klang. Customs deputy director-general Datuk Zulkifli Yahya said this method was used by drug smugglers to avoid detection. “Smugglers are always trying to hoodwink the authorities by bringing in illicit drugs from different cities. “It has been a long time since we seized drugs flown in via Dhaka,” he said yesterday. Zulkifli said his men sprang into action after receiving information that illicit drugs were being flown into KL International Airport from Dhaka. Once the contraband landed, it was taken in a lorry to the house in Bandar Bukit Tinggi on Wednesday. “Once the boxes were taken inside the house, we conducted a raid and found the drugs which were sealed in small plastic bags hidden in between brand new T-shirts made in Bangladesh. –CB Report

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Saturday April 22, 2017

customs officers found 3720kg of acetic anhydride

oman says new refinery capacity in Sohar to cut crude oil exports man’s crude oil exports will drop by about 50,000 barrels per day when new refining capacity comes onstream in the northern city of Sohar by early 2017, Minister of Oil and Gas Mohammad bin Hamad al-Rumhy has said.

Rumhy said the refinery project had been due to be commissioned by the end of 2016, but there had been a delay so the commissioning date would be in the first quarter of next year. The project would increase the Sohar refinery’s capacity by between 65 and 70 percent.

“It will take an additional 70 to 90,000 bpd. And with the increase in Oman’s average oil production to exceed a million bpd, we expect the drop in our oil exports to be 50,000 bpd compared to last year,” Rumhy said in an interview. He added that state-owned Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Co (ORPIC) would seek to refine different crude mixes. “In the future I can see ORPIC go shopping for crude oil, which is not the case currently,” Rumhy said.

“Refineries tend to do better when they have the option to refine different mixes of crude. “So we will be importing different crudes to have a better yield, and to look at the needs of the local market in petroleum products.”–CB Report

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Hungary’s budget posts eur 638.9m deficit ungary’s cash flow-based budget, excluding local councils, showed a 198.1 billion forint (EUR 638.9m) deficit at the end of preliminary data released by the Economy Ministry on Thursday show. The deficit reached 17 percent of the 1,166.4 billion forint fullyear target. The central budget posted a 168.6 billion forint deficit and the social insurance funds were 45.9 billion forints in the red at the end of March. Separate state funds ran a 16.4 billion forint surplus. The ministry noted that the deficit exceeded the 125.8 billion forint gap in the base period, but said it was “in line with expectations”. Higher wages the result of an agreement reached between the government, employers and unions late last year boosted payroll tax revenue, it said. –CB Report

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BAGHDAD

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ustoms ofQicers at Kalotina Checkpoint have seized 3720 kg of acetic anhydride.

This was announced by the press center of the National Customs Agency. The precursor was found during a check of three trucks carrying apples from Serbia to Iraq. The three trucks were selected for scanning, which detected density anomalies. During the physical inspection

the customs ofQicers discovered tubes containing acetic anhydride – a precursor for heroin production – hidden in some crates of apples.

The total amount found in the three trucks is 3720 kg net weight divided into 178 tubes. The acetic anhydride found is worth only about BGN 1,700 per tonne. It can, however, produce more than 1.5 tonnes of heroin worth over BGN 135M. Meanwhile, A territorial dispute in northern Iraq threatens to disrupt oil output at a Qield containing as much crude as Norway, even as U.S.-backed forces prepare what could be a decisive blow against ISIS militants in the

nearby city of Mosul. Kirkuk, where Iraq Qirst discovered oil in 1927, can produce more than 1 million barrels a day but is pumping at less than half its capacity while competing ethnic and political groups scramble to control its 9 billion barrels of reserves.

Lying near a disputed city of the same name, the Kirkuk Qield is a tinderbox for potential conQlict between the central government and Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurds, both of whom have for decades claimed it as their own. More recently, it also became a Qlashpoint for rival Kurdish political parties and their heavily armed supporters.

Singapore shipping firm sues customs

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SINGAPORE

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wners of the chartered vessel of trading Qirm Glencore Singapore private limited has sought relief from a local court citing inaction by the Bureau of Customs over its urgent appeal to be released from what it described as “unwarranted seizure and detention.”

Customs authorities earlier seized MT Alpine Magnolia at the port of Limay, Bataan province, on

charges that it was carrying smuggled fuel. The cargo, consisting of bunker fuel worth more than P700 million, was consigned to SL Harbor Bulk Terminal Corp, a unit of conglomerate San Miguel Corp. SL Harbor earlier Qiled a similar case before the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA).

The vessel’s owners, in their appeal Qiled before the CTA, said the “unfounded allegation and wrongful seizure” made by the bureau “without due process” besmirched its reputation in the international business community.

The Qirm said it caused a major client, UK’s BP Group one of world’s biggest energy companies to put its business with MT Alpine Magnolia on hold “until BP Shipping is satisQied that adequate measures have been taken” regarding the incident.

BP Shipping took note of the matter after it learned about Customs’ allegations that the vessel was seized for carrying smuggled fuel.

MT Alpine Magnolia is a foreign vessel owned by Magnolia Shipping private limited and operated by ST Shipping of Singapore. It was chartered by

Glencore Shipping private limited and ST Shipping to discharge the bunker fuel consigned to SL Harbor Bulk terminal Corp., the shipping unit of San Miguel. Meanwhile, The 2017 International Furniture Fair Singapore, held in conjunction with the 34th Asean Furniture Show, drew 21,966 trade professionals from the furniture, interior design and furnishings industries, according to results released this week. The visitors included 87 buying delegations from 92 countries from around Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

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Customs Appraisement post 4 pc growth in duty, taxes collection Saturday April 22, 2017

Lahore

LAHORE: Collectorate of Customs Appraisement Lahore has collected Rs6304 million duty and taxes during the month of March if current Financial Year 2016-17 which is 4 percent additional against the assigned target of Rs6079 for the same month.

The Collectoarte collected Rs2611 million under the head of customs duty during month of March while it collected Rs 3180 million under the head sales tax during the period under review.

Similarly the Collectoarte collected Rs511 million withholding tax (WHT) during the month while it collected Rs 1.3 million as federal excise duty (FED) during the same period of March financial year 2016-17.

customs Appellate pcA summons M/s faiz company in Tribunal orders release of rs189,142 duty, tax evasion case truck to its lawful owner LAHORE

LAHORE

SAJiD nAwAZ

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he Customs Appellate Tribunal has set aside an impugned order and passed an order for the release of a truck to its lawful owner unconditionally in a case of Muhammad Habib Khan versus Additional Collector (Adjudication) Faisalabad and Superintendent Anti-Smuggling Organization.

Omer Arshad Hakeem, Member Judicial bench-II, has accepted the appeal of complainants Habib Ullah, a resident of Bannu and Rehmat Ullah, a resident of North Wizirstan.

The tribunal member declared that the respondent department failed to produce proofs of smuggled nature of goods and vehicle so the order passed by the adjudication is

Appraisement summons employee involved in misconduct he Customs Collectorate Appraisement of Mughalpura Dry Port has issued a notice to one of the employees who is involved in misconduct. Sources told Customs Today that Assistant Collector Customs headquarters Appraisement has issued a notice to Ziaul Islam son of Abdul Islam to ensure his presence before the departmental investigative disciplinary authority. Ziaul Islam is suspended by the authorities on some misconduct and investigation has started to reach the relevant facts of his dismissal from his job. Sources said that Driver Ziaul Islam is a resident of house number 547 D-4 Township Lahore and his duties are served at Mughalpura dry port Lahore. According to the notice issued to him in case of failure before the competent authority on the date and time fixed, disciplinary proceedings shall be decided on the basis of material evidences available on record. –M Imran Mehar

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washed away.

As per history of case, the staff of ASO Mianwali intercepted a Hino truck, on demand, driver failed to produce any legal document showing lawful possession of the truck. After mechanical veriQication from Excise and Taxation Department and laboratory, the truck was seized as per law.

After show cause notice, adjudication authority also declared outright conQiscation of the under the Customs Act 1969. Appellant dissatisQied from the impugned order and challenged the order before the Customs Appellate Tribunal on the grounds that the impugned order is an arbitrary and capricious manner without consideration of record of case. Further raised the points that no show cause notice was issued to the appellant before the passing the impugned order of conQiscation of the vehicle, all relevant document of the vehicle are legal as per requirements.

M HAYAT

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irectorate of Customs Post Clarence has summoned M/s Faiz Company, Makkah Colony Rawalpindi, for its alleged involvement in duty and tax evasion of Rs 189,142 in import of tarpaulin.

According to the details, the PCA Lahore observed that the import clearances data against HS Code 6306.1210 effected from various Model Customs Collectorate during the calendar years, 2012 and 2013, revealed that inadmissible concession of sales tax and value added sales tax under the SRO (1125)/2011 dated 31.12.2011, was availed on the import of tarpaulin i.e. sun shedding which is specifically excluded from that ambit of the said SRO and hence was not entitled for such

benefit under the said SRO. It has been observed that importer had imported various consignments consisting of tarpaulin and got it cleared under PCT heading 6306.1210 with inadmissible concession under SRO 1125(I/201

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1, dated 31.12.2011. Hence, it was said that the importers have short paid an amount Rs189,142 sales tax, additional sales tax and income tax due to wrongful, concession under the SRO I 125(D/2011 dated 31.12.2011.

customs court sentences one month customs court hears 15 cases he Special Court of Customs Qiled by Iqbal Baig. imprisonment to bootlegger Taxation and Anti-Smuggling Cases of Lahore, Gujranwala, Mul-

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he Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and AntiSmuggling has sent a suspect, Shakeel Ahmed, to jail for one month in an alcohol smuggling case.

According to details available with Customs Today, Shakeel Ahmad was arrested by the Punjab Rangers near Wagah border while he was making an attempt to smuggle alcohol from India to Pakistan.

He was caught red handed by the mobile party of the Punjab Rangers.

More than 48 bottles of Indian

made alcohol were recovered from his possession. An investigation team of the Punjab Rangers presented him before the Customs Court. After completion of investigation, Rangers presented a challan against the accused. During hearing of the case, he found guilty as per witnesses and proofs. Customs Judge Aqal Hassan Chuhan announced a verdict and sent him to jail for one month imprisonment.

The Customs Court has imposed a Qine penalty as well. –CB Report

heard 18 tax cases which were scheduled for hearing.

The special court adjourned many cases, including hearing of bail pleas of three suspects. The court postponed pre-arrest bail pleas of Naveed Hussain and Muhammad Asghar in tax evasion cases. Both the accused were wanted in tax evasion cases of different kinds from Lahore and Gujranwala. The court also proceeded on statements of witnesses on three different cases on the day and adjourned narcotics case which was

tan and Faisalabad were scheduled for hearing on Saturday in which cases of narcotics, customs, tax evasion and smuggling were included. Customs Court also adjourned the cases of recording of statements in two cases of tax evasion and smuggling. Meanwhile, The Special Court of Customs Taxation and Anti-Smuggling heard 17 important cases on Friday and adjourned most of the cases until the next hearing. At least 17 cases of different types, including pre-arrest bail pleas Qiled by accused persons were scheduled for the day. –CB Report

prA issues ST notices to several restaurants in Lahore

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LAHORE

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he Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) has issued Sales Tax notices to a number of restaurants located in different posh areas of the city Lahore and Faisalabad. As per details available to Customs Today, various PRA

teams, under the supervisions of additional commissioner enforcement, took action against those restaurants which were reluctant to pay tax on their heavy sales. The authority has issued second notices to all the restaurants. It is pertinent to mention here that the Punjab Revenue Authority has started installing monitoring system aimed at enhancing the revenue of provincial

exchequer. It has also started a prize winning scheme to convince the masses for demanding sales tax invoices from restaurants. It is also learnt that the PRA will continue its crackdown on those restaurants which are not submitting sales tax according to their real income.

Sources said that stern action will be taken against those restaurants who are found involved in such practices.

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Giant container ship will stop at Port of Virginia PORTSMOUTH: The biggest container ship to ever dock along the East Coast will be stopping at the Virginia International Gateway in Portsmouth.

The Virginian-Pilot reports the COSCO Development will arrive May 8. The ship is about 1,200 feet long – which is only 250 feet shy of the length of the Empire State Building. The ship can carry more than 13,000 containers at once. The COSCO Development’s first U.S. East Coast stop will be in Virginia, after a journey that starts in Hong Kong and includes visits to several Chinese ports before crossing the Pacific Ocean and through the Panama Canal. The Port says a ship of this size will call at the port every week, starting in May.

Sc ports leader touts growth at Scc’s inaugural economic event he rising flow of goods and materials through the Port of Charleston could lift the Upstate’s fortunes in the coming years, South Carolina’s top ports official told a group of Spartanburg business leaders Thursday night. Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the S.C. Ports Authority, gave the keynote address at Spartanburg Community College’s inaugural Economic Visionaries awards banquet held at the Spartanburg MARRIOTT. Newsome told the crowd discount retailer Dollar Tree’s 1.5 million-square-foot distribution center in Cowpens is just the first of many large economic development projects that will be attracted to the region by the agency’s inland port in Spartanburg County. “I think we’ll see a lot more in the fu-

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ture,” he said. “We exist to invest in assets that will help us serve the state of South Carolina and this very important region.” Newsome said the Port of Charleston is the nation’s ninth largest port in terms of volume, ahead of other ports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Boston, and New Orleans. The port handled a record 2 million 20-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, in 2016. Its volume increased 45 percent between 2011 and 2016, making it the fastestgrowing port in terms of percentage growth in the U.S. during that period.

Newsome said a handful of large manufacturing companies, including several based in the Upstate BMW Manufacturing Co., Michelin North America, International Paper, and GE account for 10 percent of the state’s container volume. –CB Report

Ports & Shipping

port of Dover struggles to avoid a Brexit cliff edge DOVER

Singapore and Japan to collaborate in development of ports ingapore and Japan have signed a memorandum of cooperation (MOC) for the planning, management and technological development of ports in the two countries. The MOC between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Ports and Harbours Bureau of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), was signed on the sidelines of the International Symposium on LNG Bunkering in Yokohama. Michio Kikuchi, director-general of the Ports and Harbours Bureau, said: “Based on this MOC, we are striving to forge a closer partnership with MPA to contribute to sustainable development of ports in Japan and Singapore.” Mr Kikuchi cited changes in the industry landscape as potential areas requiring collaboration between Singapore and Japan. These include increasing the sizes of container vessels, restructuring of shipping lines and International Maritime Organization tightening regulations on ship emissions. –CB Report

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lmost a Qifth of the goods imported and exported by the U.K. make their way through the port of Dover, so a tough Brexit deal threatens to leave the port hopelessly congested. Around 2.6 million trucks rumbled through the port in 2016, accounting for 17 percent of the U.K.’s trade in goods, worth £119 billion. Trucks take only seconds to clear the port, but if Brexit ends up creating regulatory and tariff barriers between the U.K. and the EU, the result could be a trafQic nightmare. “The talks must achieve a frictionless border, and for Dover that means maintaining the rapid transit of goods through the crossings … post-Brexit,” said Tim Waggott, the port’s chief executive.

The EU’s top Brexit negotiator recognizes the risk Brexit poses to the port. Michel Barnier warned of “lengthening lorry queues in Dover” in the event of “a no deal situation.”

Saturday April 22, 2017

Dover is fully integrated into a frictionless single market customs checks were last carried out for U.K.EU trade in 1992, and the industry will need time to adjust to what could be an extra 300 million declarations a year once outside the bloc, said James Hookham from the Freight Transport Association. “We need to avoid checks at port terminals. They are conQigured for arrive and drive, not wait and queue,” he

said. Port spokesman Richard Christian, speaking from his ofQice in the Victorian-era postcard-perfect townhouse that serves as the harbor headquarters, said custom checks at the port site are a “non-starter.”

He instead wants to focus on solutions like digital customs clearance and rationalizing the more than 30 government agencies that currently have the right to stop trafQic coming through the port.

uS ports forge alliances to keep spots on trade U

WASHINGTON

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S seaports are joining forces, setting aside decades of regional competition over cargo as a wave of consolidation in the shipping industry threatens to cut some cities out of global trade routes.

Shipping regulators are reviewing a proposal by the port authorities of Georgia and Virginia to discuss coordinating some operations, including investments in new equipment and negotiations with shipping lines. The ports of Seattle and Tacoma, Wash. merged most operations in 2015.

The nation’s busiest ports, in Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif., are sharing more data since severe congestion brought operations to a near halt along the West Coast two years ago.

The deals are a response to unprecedented consolidation in the shipping industry. The world’s top ocean car-

riers have formed three alliances that went into operation at the start of this month and will control 90% of shipments on major global trade routes. They plan to save money by packing more cargo on larger ships that make fewer stops.

Many ports, fearful that they would be left out of shipping routes, are investing billions of dollars to dredge deeper harbors and install bigger cranes to handle the new class of megaships. Consolidation among U.S. ports is the logical next step, experts say. “The shipping alliances have all the power,” said Geraldine Knatz, who was executive director of the Port of Los Angeles until January 2014 and is now a professor at the University of Southern California. “We’ve got to stop Qighting against each other, and try instead to build some leverage.” Still, many secondary ports are investing heavily to stay competitive. The Port

of Miami recently spent more than $1 billion on a deeper channel and other improvements, and expects volume would more than double by 2035. South Carolina’s Port of Charleston, the eighth-busiest U.S. port, is spending $2 billion to break into the top Qive by 2020. The move toward partnerships underscores the stark choices facing ports on both coasts: beef up to handle big ships or get left behind. At stake are thousands of jobs and the livelihoods of importers, exporters and freight and logistics businesses that cluster around major ports.

Port terminals in Portland, Ore., Oakland, Calif. and elsewhere were idled last year, but shipping lines called other ports on the West Coast and overall container volume to the region’s ports rose in 2016. In Europe, ports in Belgium and Spain saw cargo volumes drop after ports in the U.K., Netherlands and Ger-

many added capacity. Seattle and Tacoma, now operating as the Northwest Seaport Alliance, pool money and make infrastructure investments together. Last year, the ports handled 9% more loaded containers, compared with a 4% increase at Southern California’s two ports and a 0.1% drop at the Port of Vancouver, British Columbia, the closest large port to Seattle.

The ports of Savannah, Ga., and Norfolk, Va., the second- and thirdlargest East Coast container ports by volume, respectively, would continue to operate separately under their agreement, but would share some information such as what equipment they plan to buy and which types of cargo they would go after. This could allow the ports to complement each other by specializing in different kinds of cargo, rather than compete.

Port ofQicials in Georgia and Virginia declined to comment.

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Number of tax returns surges to 1.11 million ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced that the number of annual income tax return filers for tax year 2016 has surged to 1.11 million. According to FBR’s weekly Active Taxpayers List (ATL), about 100,000 return filers have been added since issuance of first ATL issued on March 01, 2017. The massive increase in number of tax returns was witnessed after the FBR’s ongoing crackdown against non-filers, the official sources said, adding that only active taxpayers were able to avail the reduced rate of withholding tax.

Saturday, April 22, 2017

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customs i&i seizes non-duty paid cigarettes worth rs36.5m on Dg Shaukat’s directives ISLAMABAD cuSToMS BuLLeTin reporT www.customsbulletin.com

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he Directorate General Customs Intelligence and Investigation (I&I) Peshawar seized 526 cartons of foreign origin smuggled cigarettes worth Rs36.5 million.

According to sources the Customs I&I Peshawar has foiled a major attempt of smuggling huge quantity of high quality branded foreign origin cigarettes into the country.

Director General Customs I&I Shaukat Ali received a tip-off regarding transportation of smuggled cigarettes. He immediately constituted a special team and directed them to start searching the vehicles at entry/exit points of the province.

While searching, the customs I&I team intercepted a suspicious ten wheeler Hino Truck stuffed with foreign origin smuggled cigarettes near ACL, Bridge Nowshera. Thorough search and examination of the truck led the recovery of foreign origin smuggled high quality cigarettes brands including Milano cigarettes made in UAE 286 cartons, Pine cigarettes made in Korea 144 cartons, Napoli cigarettes made in Italy 30

cartons, MOND cigarettes 28 cartons, Lips cigars made in USA 24 cartons, ZEN cigarettes made in UAE 8 cartons and Milano ciga-

rettes small 6 cartons. The smuggled cigarettes along with the truck have accordingly been seized for violation of the provi-

sions of the Customs Act 1969.

The estimated value of the seizure is Rs40.5 million (goods Rs36.5 million and truck Rs4 million).

The customs intelligence and investigation team lodged an FIR and arrested one accused. Further investigations are underway.

SHc restores sales tax registration of M/s Ship Masters KARACHI

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he Sindh High Court (SHC) restored the sales tax registration of petitioner, however petitioner will not be entitled to claim any adjustment or refund till next date of hearing on a constitutional petition Qiled

by M/s Ship Masters seeking restoration of its sales tax registration suspended by the tax

authorities.

While hearing of the petition, a two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, directed the tax department and deputy attorney general of Pakistan to Qile their para-wise comments on next date of hearing.

During the hearing, no one was in attendance on behalf of the respondents despite service of court notice in the office of CIR RTO-II Karachi whereas no intimation was received. Counsel for the petitioner submitted that the petitioner is facing hardships and serious financial crises in view of

such illegal suspension of sales tax registration whereas no notice has ever been served on the petitioner in terms of section 21 of the Sales Tax Act-1990.

Counsel for the petitioner further contended that no penal proceedings whatsoever are pending against the petitioner in respect of his taxable activities, according to him, have come to halt on account of illegal suspension by the respondents with effect from June 13, 2013. It has been prayed that interim relief may be granted during the hearing. Assistant attorney general requested further time to seek

instructions and Qile comments on behalf of the respondents. After the hearing, court adjourned the hearing for April 24, 2017 and suspended the operation of suspension of sales tax registration of the petitioner and directed the respondents to Qile their para-wise comments on next date of hearing.

Meanwhile, The Sindh High Court (SHC) issued notice to M/s English Boot House Pvt Ltd on an income tax reference application Qiled by Commissioner Inland Revenue Zone-II Large Tax Payers Unit challenging the impugned judgment of the appellate tribunal over recovery

Published 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

of Rs20million from M/s English Boot House Pvt Ltd. While hearing the application, a two-member bench, headed by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi, also directed it to Qile its para-wise comments on next date of hearing. Earlier, counsel for the applicant stated in the income tax reference application that a show cause notice was issued to the above named taxpayer in short payment of sales tax to the tune of Rs20million under Section 11 (2) and 34 of the Sales Tax Act-1990.

However being aggrieved, taxpayer approached the Commissioner Inland Revenue Appeals-I.