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pAkISTAN’S fIRST INDEpTH NEwSpApER oN cUSToMS

Daily

Vol 1 Issue No. 295

Karachi, Wed February 17, 2016

ISLAMABAD

NAEEM ULLAH TARIQ www.customsbulletin.com

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he Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO), Abdur Rauf Chaudhry, has recommended the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to conduct an inquiry into “highhandedness and administrative excesses” of the ofRicers of Regional Tax ofRice (RTO), Multan. Multan RTO Chief Commissioner HaRiz Awaisi and his subordinates had issued as many as 40 notices to appellant, Ashiq Hussain Malik, during from February 17, 2014 to August 6, 2014 which the FTO termed “mala Ride, vindictive, biased, arbitrary and unlawful”.

The FTO had announced this after compiling the verdict on a

Price Rs. 14.00

case Riled by Medical Superintendent, Nishter Medical Hospital, Multan, Ashiq Hussain Malik against ofRicers of RTO, Multan.

The appellant had complained the FTO about maladministration and misconduct of the RTO Multan top ofRicers. Through investigating into the matter, the FTO found that appellant was heavily pressurized by the Chief Commissioner RTO, Multan, HaRiz Awaisi for disregarding an application of Haifz Awaisi’s nephew, Dr Zubair Hussain Awaisi, Assistant Professor of Dentistry Institute, Multan. Zubair Awaisi had asked Ashiq Hussain to allot an accommodation in the hostel of Nisher Medical College,Multan. Following his denial to comply with the demand which was termed ‘illegal’, Chief Commissioner RTO, Multan, HaRiz Awaisi started a pressurizing campaign against Ashiq Hussain”, FTO stated.

Collector Javaid issues ONO against M/s Fazal Illahi for Rs 37.22m evasion

Dar approves draft of Strategic Trade Policy Framework for 2015-18

Pak to export over $1b worth goods to Iran after lifting of sanctions

Customs officials should boost surveillance to curb smuggling:Ahmed

Romanian investors keen to step in joint ventures with Pak counterparts:Envoy

Collector, of Customs Adjudication-II, M Javaid has issued an Order-in-Original | SEE pAgE 02 |

Darhasendorsedandapprovedthedraftof STPF2015-18afterathoroughexamination | SEE pAgE 03 |

Dastgir has said the lifting of sanctions on Iran by major powers has provided historic | SEE pAgE 04 |

Collector Customs Ahmed Reza presided over a meeting of ASO | SEE pAgE 12 |

Romanian Ambassador Emilian Ion has said that Romania wants to strengthen | SEE pAgE 09 |

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IHC division bench to hear two customs references Wednesday, February 17, 2016

ISLAMABAD: A division bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), comprising Justice Noorul Haq N Qureshi and Justice Athar Minallah, will hear two custom references on Tuesday involving the customs appellate tribunal, Islamabad. Haidir Beverages Private Limited and M/s Bestway Cement Limited had filed these references, challenging the tribunal’s decision before the high court. The appellant had also made party to officers of Large Taxpayer’s Unit and Regional Tax Office (RTO), Islamabad.

Advocate Naziran Malik would contest on behalf of tribunal in case filed by M/s Bestwasy Cement Limited.

National

collector Javaid issues oNo against M/s fazal Illahi for Rs 37.22m evasion

customs court extends remand of currency smuggling accused LAHORE

M IMRAN MEHAR

KARACHI

AfTAB cHANNA

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ollector, Collectorate of Customs Adjudication-II, Chaudhary Mohammad Javaid has issued an Order-in-Original against M/s Fazal Illahi, Lahore for bringing loss of more than Rs 37.220 million to the national exchequer.

According to the OnO, the Collector stated in view of foregoing position, it becomes evident that the importer has committed the offence of mis-declaration and, therefore, the charges, leveled, in the show cause notice stand established. In exercise of the powers conferred upon me under section 32(1), 32(2) & 32A (1)(c)(d) & 192 of the Customs Act, 1969, the respondents namely importer M/s Fazal Illahi are directed to deposit the duty/taxes amounting to Rs 37.220 million into the government treasury.

The department has stated that requisite duties/taxes have already been deposited which fact may be rechecked and if found correct then no further payment on account of evaded duties and taxes in respect of the GDs mentioned.

Moreover, payment of default surcharge under Section 34 of the Sales Tax Act, 1990, may also be checked and may be recovered as per law, if not paid earlier. However, a penalty of Rs 800,000 is also imposed on

he Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and Anti-Smuggling has extended a 14-day judicial remand of a suspect who was arrested in Faisalabad.

According to details, Niaz Muhammad was arrested by customs authorities in smuggling scam. Earlier, he was produced before the court where Customs Court accepted his physical remand of three days for investigation. Now he was again produced in the Customs Court where the court accepted his judicial remand for another 14 days and sent him to jail. Earlier, he was booked by the Customs authorities when Customs Intelligence found him guilty in smuggling of cloths. The Customs team also asked him to prove that these recovered items are legally imported but he failed to produce legal receipts and import record of the cloth. Customs Faisalabad seized all the cloth and arrested him. According to data presented before the Court by Customs authorities value of the smuggled clothes is Rs 8 million. Clothes are smuggled through KPK Peshawar route from Afghanistan and most of the cloth is Chinese and Korean origin.

M/s Fazal Illahi & Sons in terms of Clause (14) Section 156 (1) of the Customs Act, 1969. Similarly, the clearing agents in the instant case M/s Kaikobad Pestanjee Kakalia and M/s A & S Enterprises apparently connived with the importer to facilitate his clearances through deliberate mis-declaration and failed to discharge their responsibility to Rile a true and correct declaration for their

client. Therefore, a penalty of Rs 300,000 each is also imposed on the clearing agent namely Kaikobad Pestanjee Kakalia and M/s A&S Enterprises in terms of Clauses 14 and 14A of Section 156(1) of the Customs Act, 1969.

Meanwhile, Customs AdjudicationII Collector Chaudhary Muhammad Javaid has directed the M/s Fauzia Aftab to pay duty/taxes to the tune of

Rs 5.381 million, which it evaded on the import of titanium dioxide through mis-declaration. The collector imposed a Rine of Rs 500,000 while issuing Order-in-Original (ONO) No 137/2015-16 against the company.

According to the details, the Directorate of Post Clearance Audit (PCA) found that M/s Fauzia Aftab imported consignments of titanium dioxide by mis-declaring HS Code.

fBR allows exemptions on LEDs/SMDs lights

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KARACHI

AfTAB cHANNA

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he Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has allowed exemption on the import of LED lights under Serial No 24(2) of Fifth Schedule of the Customs Act, 1969 so as to avoid delay and litigation in the said issues.

“I am directed to refer to Collectorate’s letter dated September 22, 2015, seeking clarification

whether LEDs/SMDs with or without ballast with fittings and fixtures, having specification 3W, 6W, 7W, 12W etc, having 50/60 Hz, 85265V, qualify for exemption from customs duty in terms of Sr No 24 (2) of Part-I of Fifth Schedule to the Customs Act, 1969.

The Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation has also issued an alert on October 9, 2015 about the LED lights qualifying under the said provisions. Similarly, Model Customs Collectorate

Appraisement-West, Karachi vide letter dated October 30, 2015 has circulated an assessment alert on this issue. “Hence, warranting a clarification on the subject,” according to a letter available with Customs Today.

“The varying practices being followed by the field formations on imports of LEDs/SMDs viz aforesaid exemption are causing hardships for the importers leading to concessionary controversy, delays and litigation”, the letter added..

“So far as consignments having AEDB certification is concerned, there is a dire consensus among the field formation in allowing the exemption. However, there appears to be a lack of consensus on extending the benefits in such LEDs/SMDs imported as standalone consignments.

The issue has been examined in consultation with stakeholders i.e.

AEDB, ENERCON and other experts in this field”.

“Keeping in view the existing

formulation, there is a dire need to have an objective criterion/limiting benchmark for allowing exemptions in a uniform, transparent and smooth manner. Board is, therefore, pleased to clarify that only such consignments of LEDs/SMDs would be eligible for exemption of customs duty under Sr No 24(2), Part-I of the Fifth Schedule to the Customs Act, 1969, where the operable voltage of LEDs/SMDs does not exceed 60 Volts”, the letter concluded.

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Kasur Excise seals 2,800 properties, impounds 3,000 vehicles LAHORE: The Excise and Taxation Department Kasur is continuing its crackdown against defaulters of property tax, token tax, professional tax and entertainment tax with full enthusiasm. Sources told Customs Today that to chase the revenue target of third quarter of the fiscal year 2015-16, Kasur excise collected Rs 110 million from defaulters and still tightening its screws against defaulters. During one and half month of January and February excise has seized 2,800 properties in Kasur, Chunian, Khudian, Raja Jhang, Usmanwala, Kanganpur, Allahabad and other factory areas of the district.

customs Appellate Tribunal Bench-II will hear three customs references

Wednesday February 17, 2016

National

Dar approves draft of Strategic Trade policy framework for 2015-18

ISLAMABAD

NAEEM ULLAH TARIQ www.customsbulletin.com

ustoms Appellate Tribunal Bench-II will hear three customs references, on Tuesday (today), carrying complaints against difference field offices of Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

M/s United Mobile had filed customs case against Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation (DG Intelligence and Investigations), Islamabad. Directorate General deputy director had been made respondent in the cases. M/s United Mobile, through its appeal, 139/CU/IB/2015, had sought release of 160 mobiles which were seized by customs intelligence, Islamabad.

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LHc admit pleas filed against punjab Revenue Authority LAHORE

MUHAMMAD NAwAZ www.customsbulletin.com

ahore High Court single bench admitted 110 plea filed against the establishment of Punjab Revenue Authority, chairman and its functioning. Sources told Customs Today that Punjab Revenue Authority also filed an intra-court appeal through advocate Malik Owais in which it says that LHC single bench admitted these pleas after crossing its legal limits. He adopted the stance that according to section 199 of the constitution court is bound not to interfere in the matters of government. He pleaded to court that Punjab Revenue Authority is functioning legally and can collect taxes. He said that only assembly is authorised to amend any rule and clause in PRA laws. He prayed to court to declare the verdict of single bench of LHC as null and void.

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ISLAMABAD

M ARSHAD

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inance Minister Ishaq Dar has endorsed and approved the draft of Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF) 2015-18 after a thorough examination of the each and every clause.

The Ministry of Commerce claimed this in a document presented in a meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce here.

This claim has been made despite the fact that Secretary Commerce Shahzad Abrab had admitted that Prime Minister had shown reservations on the trade policy draft and directed the Ministry of Commerce to add measures to enhance exports.

He made this admission before the Senate Committee over a month’s time ago But, the document present before the same committee said that in pursuance of the decision of the Cabinet Committee on Production and Exports, the Ministry of Commerce submitted the STPF 2015-15 draft to the Chairman Committee on October 30, 2015 for subsequent submission to the Prime Minister for approval. The Ministry of Commerce further pressed that major thrust of the STPF 2015-18 was to provide support for technology up-gradation, product development, branding and certiRication apart from support to agro processing SMEs market access, trade diplomacy, institutional development are important part of the

STPF. Thus STPF was submitted to the cabinet committee on production and exports constituted by the Prime Minister Headed by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. The committee comprises all the relevant federal minsters, parliamentary secretaries, federal secretaries of the respective divisions.

The Rirst meeting the said committee was initially held on August 21,2015.

The committee on production and exports suggested a few amendments after thorough deliberations.

Secretary commerce Shahzad Abrab had admitted that prime Minister had shown reservations on the trade policy draft and directed the Ministry of commerce to add measures to enhance exports

Auction of seized goods, vehicles on feb 22 LAHORE

M IMRAN MEHAR

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he Pakistan Customs has announced to hold auction of goods, parcels, vehicles and missing items on February 22.

As per details, auction of the impounded cars, spare parts and other goods is going to hold auction at

Mughalpura dry port. Parcels having no ownership will also be presented for the auction on ‘as it is basis’. Interested parties and persons will be allowed to examine and check the goods on February 20.

As per notice issued by the customs auctioneer Muhammad Akram, any person who wants to participate in auction of vehicles and other goods should bring his national identity card with him on the day of auction. The National Tax Number is also mandatory to par-

ticipate in the auction.

Customs Appraisement Assistant Commissioner Riaz Hussain Bhatti has selected place for the day of auction. Auction will be held at 11 am at Mughal pura Dry Port in which auction of parcels, impounded vehicles and other goods will be conducted.

Meanwhile, The Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and AntiSmuggling has extended a 14-day judicial remand of a suspect who was arrested in Faisalabad.

These amendments were duly incorporated again and presented to the committee on August 28, 2015 which approved the STPF2015-18 along with proposals moved forward to the committee. The document further reveals the claim of the Ministry of Commerce that STPF 2015-18 was prepared after in-depth discussion and consultation with all the relevant stakeholders both in public and private sectors including Federation of Pakistan.

ApAT rejects govt tax amnesty scheme, wHT resident All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajran (APAT) Naeem Mir said that traders community collectively decided that government must withdraw withholding tax on the banking transactions and trader strongly rejected tax amnesty scheme because scheme did not in favor of business community but it facilitates a selected community of billioner.

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Punjab to export 3 million tonnes of potatoes this year: Dr Farrukh ARIFWALA: Provincial Minister for Agriculture Dr Farrukh Javed said the process of potato export to international markets had been started and growers would get best rates of their yields. Talking to media persons, he said, potato was being exported to a number of countries especially to Russia, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. He said the government was taking effective measures to facilitate the exporters in potato export. “We are planning to export at least 3 million ton potatoes this year,” he said, adding that their prime objective was that growers could get maximum benefit of their hard work in the shape of better price of their produce.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Business

pSX observes rollercoaster day, sheds 255 points KARACHI

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pened with positive note, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a rollercoaster day shedding 254.99 points to drop to 31673.16 points level at closing on Tuesday.

The stocks recorded the highest trading level of 32159.26 points and lowest level of 31608.70 points, with the volume of 166.74 million shares,

Askari Bank’s profits up by 46% to Rs 8.43b in 2015

having about Rs9.44 billion value. As many as 325 companies were active; of which 99 advanced, 204 declined and 22 remained unchanged. Oil & gas marketing companies was the top traded sector with 26,254,000 volume, while cement remained second with 25,366,800 volume. The three top traded companies were Sui North Gas with a volume of 14,151,500 and price per share of 25.04 (0.04), Fauji Cement with a volume 13,036,000 of price per share of 39.56 (0.08), and Dewan Motors with a volume 12,579,000 of price per share of 9.08 (0.99). The top three gainers were Bata (Pak)

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ISLAMABAD

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skari Bank has posted positive annual financial results for the year ended December 31, 2015. According to the official statement, profit before tax at Rs8.43 billion is showing an impressive growth of 46 per cent and profit after tax of Rs5.04 billion is reflecting a growth of 26 per cent, resulting in earning per share (EPS) of Rs4.0 against Rs3.19 for the last year.

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LAHORE

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644 (27.82) and Sapphire Fiber price per share of 663.50 (15.60).

he sugar price surged in wholesale market, as a 49-kg bag was available at Rs 3200-3300, which was selling at Rs 3,000 during last week, leading to an increase of Rs5 per kg from Rs60 to Rs65 a kg.

Prices of ghee and edible oil have also gone up by Rs10-15 per kg, as different brands have announced new rates during the last week.

The retail price of sugar has surged to Rs65 a kilogram after the government announced Rs6.5 billion (Rs13 a kg) export subsidy to millers in December 2015, when prices were Rs56. Though the wholesale price has risen from Rs56 to Rs60, but retailers are charging consumers an extra Rs4 per kg.

Moreover, flour prices also improved to Rs 4,100/ from Rs 4,000 per 85-kg in wholesale markets.

Similarly, the retail rates also steadily increased as fine flour is being sold at Rs 52 per kg against the Rs 48 per kg, while brown flour was available at Rs 42 per kg against Rs 40 per kg.

A nominal cut in prices of gram flour was also seen being sold at Rs 70 per kilogram against Rs 90 per kg. Similarly, a slight decline also witnessed in rates of beverages with different quality and brands.

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SEcp wants QcR-rated auditors for better performance of cost audit

LAHORE

cUSToMS BULLETIN REpoRT

with price per share 3400 (100), Shield Corp with price per share of

Sugar price up by Rs 5/kg to Rs 65, ghee by Rs 10-15

he Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a circular requiring appointment of QCR-rated auditors for performance of cost audit. The commission, in its recent meeting, withdrew the 1990 Vegetable Ghee and Cooking Oil Companies (Cost Accounting Records) Order. The SECP has been entrusted with a multifaceted role of ensuring

accountability and transparency and at the same time enhancing the ease of doing business. It, therefore, constantly evaluates its regulatory regime to achieve the aforesaid delicate balance.

Vegetable Ghee and Cooking Oil Companies (Cost Accounting Records) Order required that the companies in this sector maintain cost records. These records were further required to be audited under the provisions of the 1984 Companies Ordinance. A review of the sector revealed that practically local industry imports the bulk of reRined,

bleached and deodorized cooking oil and markets it subsequent to packaging. The manufacturing constitutes only negligible part of the producing process hence the cost records/audits did not add value to the understanding of the Rinancials of such companies. It was also noted that businesses in ghee and cooking oil sector mostly operate in other than company form. At the same time, in order to strengthen vigilance on cost auditors reporting on the cost accounts, the SECP has introduced quality control mechanism for cost auditors.

pakistan to export over $1b worth goods to Iran ISLAMABAD

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ederal Commerce Minister Khurrum Dastgir has said the lifting of sanctions on Iran by major powers has provided historic opportunities to raise bilateral trade and investment.

He said that Pakistan would export over $1billion worth, or more products, ranging from textiles to

rice, and thousands of tonnes of mangoes, after lifting of nuclear-related sanctions from trading with Tehran, and on completion of the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, reported Khaleej Times.

He said, “Pakistan and Tehran have completed their arrangements to resume full scale trade, alongside boosting trade, the move will also help Pakistan beat the energy crisis, raise output and shore up dwindling exports, as the stalled and

sanctions-hit Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline project gets completed.”

Khurram Dastgir stressed that the Rirst priority is to resume and boost trade. “We are waiting for the remaining sanctions to be struck down to start exporting to Iran on a fast track basis.”

According to Khaleej Times report, Iran had vowed to supply Pakistan with 4,000MW of electricity, of which it was already providing 200MW. Iran also announced plans

to build a big oil reRinery at the new South-Western Pakistan port of Gwadar. The two sides would move ahead on all these plans. The IP project, as conRirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, in August 2015, in Islamabad had envisaged lying down 1,800km of pipeline from Iran to Pakistan at a cost of $7.5billion. Iran has already completed its portion of the pipeline in 2013. Tehran-based Tadbir Energy Development Group is expected to

lay down the Pakistan portion to the city of Nawabshah, which will cost $250 million, and will be completed in 15 months. Part of the Rinancing will be done by Iran.

Javad, and his Pakistani counterpart Sartaj Aziz, had also proposed cooperation in several other Rields, after the US sanctions are lifted.

These included greater trade, and Iran building in Pakistani projects ranging from energy to petrochemicals, and food to fuel.

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ISLAMABAD/MULTAN M HAYAT AND IMRAN ALI www.customsbulletin.com

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irector General Customs (Intelligence and Investigations) Imtiaz Ahmad Khan has said that a month long anti-smuggling operation would begin at M1 and M2 motorways from next week.

He said that the Customs Intelligence and Investigations has started process of recruiting constables through NTS and inspectors through FPSC, an initiative that would solve department’s most troubling problem of the shortage of staff.

Imtiaz said that smugglers used to take advantage of long border area in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, however, Customs Intelligence and Investigations, in cooperation with law enforcement agencies was able to reduce smuggling there.

He said that efforts are being made to counter smuggling through border with Iran were proving beneRicial with the help from FC, however, admitted still a lot has to be done with the cooperation from all to achieve complete success.

To a question, he said that an anti-smuggling check post was being built at Sadiqabad which would start functioning in March.

Imtiaz said, the department had also recommended such check posts at Sakhi Sarwar, Taunsa and Kashmore.

He said, he has given anti-smuggling targets to customs Intelligence and Investigations ofRicials of Sadiqabad and DG Khan. He said the department was also taking steps to check smuggling of vehicles.

He said that customs can also inspect shops and seize smuggled items but added it can create problems and may trigger abuse of power by ofRicials.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Meanwhile, Director General Customs Intelligence and Investigation Imtiaz Ahmad Khan visited Customs Intelligence and Investigation Multan.

The purpose of visit from Director General Imtiaz Ahmad Khan was to measure the performance of Customs Intelligence and Investigation in the jurisdiction of Multan. Additional Director Customs Intelligence and Investigation Nisar Ahmad has given comprehensive brieRing to Director General on the current performance of the department against smuggling.

DG Imtiaz Ahmad was briefed that Customs Intelligence have seized smuggled goods and vehicles of worth Rs 285.808 million from July to the month of February in various anti-smuggling operations in the region so far in the on-going Riscal year 2015-16. Customs Intelligence and Investigation Multan have formed 106 various seizure cases in the jurisdiction of Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan and Sadiqabad.

Customs have seized 59 smuggled vehicles of worth Rs 81.50 million and 43 seizure case of different goods and items include value of Rs 204.30 million during this period so far.

While Customs Intelligence had formed only 106 seizure cases of seized goods worth Rs 303.183 million during the corresponding period of the Riscal year 2014-15. Additional Director informed Director General Imtiaz Ahmad Khan that Customs has formed nine mega seizure

cases of worth Rs 270.448 million during the period of July to February which includes 59 non duty paid vehicles, foreign origin cloth of 2616 yards cloth , tyres of Rs 33.859 million, auto spare parts of Rs 23.518 million, 190500 litres of HSD, heavy duty generators of Rs 72.486 million, engines of Rs 17.280 million and contraband tablets of Rs 13.750 million.

Customs have done crackdown against 18 non-duty paid vehicles of Rs 24.10 million during the January and February in their extensive anti-smuggling campaign.

g e bein r a s t or g that e r smugglin d i a s He ere nte to cou with Iran w lp e d a m e r borde with the h l h g u l o il a thr nefici dmitted st e b g provin however, a with the e fc, ve e don from b o t achie s o a t l h l t a lo om a ion fr t ess a r e e succ t coop e l p com

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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

Bright prospects of regional trade

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peaceful Afghanistan is in the best interest of Pakistan and the rest of the countries in the region. Trade is correlative with peace but chaotic situation in Afghanistan has not only jeopardized peace in the region, but also in the world. It is unfortunate that Pakistan is always blamed for the situation in Afghanistan whereas in fact foreign powers, including India and the United States, desperately want to keep their presence in that country on one pretext or the other. Some countries also want to keep Pakistan in a situation which Afghanistan is enduring. The country has been in a state of war for the last over three decades and there is no letup in the situation.

However, a new regional economic and trade order is emerging in the shape of China Pakistan Economic Corridor and establishment of a trade route from Pakistan to double landlocked countries in central Asia such as Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan through China. In this regard, a four-nation agreement was signed in 2004, allowing transit trade within the four countries. A big hindrance in opening up a trade route through Afghanistan is foreign interference, especially from India which wants to besiege Pakistan from all sides. If peace in Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan, peace in Pakistan will guarantee economic and industrial development in India. After making peace with Pakistan, India can get concessions from Islamabad to get access to the central Asian states for trade and investment. Pakistan has the option to get access to Central Asian markets via China, bypassing Afghanistan.

However, there is no option available for India. Pakistan and India should compete in trade and investment and not in terms of nuclear devices or missile systems. Pakistan has another option to enhance its business activities and that is to sign a free trade agreement with Iran after sanctions have been lifted on that country. There is also need to revive the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project which went in abeyance for no apparent reasons. As a matter of fact, Pakistan is on the threshold of economic development as opportunities are knocking its door, but it seems the leadership is perplexed or confused not knowing how to respond to the business offers.

Investment in people I

LAHORE

DR AfTAB AfZAL

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nvest in education and health sectors’ is the message World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim has conveyed to the Pakistani leadership in Islamabad. According to him, investment in people will make Pakistan a success story in the comity of nations. Pakistan has one of the youngest populations in the world and investment in education and healthcare will enable them to show good performance in every Rield of the economy. The World Bank chief also slapped in the face of local leadership when he quoted the founder of the nation Quid-eAzam’s saying ‘Unity, Faith and

Discipline’ which can guarantee not only economic growth of the country, but also convert Pakistan into a great success story. The present government has only two years left to do any good to this nationand brighten its chances to come to power again in the next general elections. The World Bank chief pointed out the critical phase through which the country is currently going through and the government still has two years to play a historical role for the development of the economy.

Investing in education, especially in early childhood education, means investment in the people as well as provision of healthcare facilities will push the country toward economic development. There is also a need to

strengthen private sector by offering it incentives enabling it to play its due role in the country’s economy. However, encouraging the leadership, the World Bank chief says that Pakistan is now on the right track to become a great success story in the world and has offered its experience to ensure sustainable growth. It seems our leadership is unprepared to take any step to boost not only infrastructure, but also introduce structural reforms to strengthen the economy. The country been made hostage to mismanagement, corruption and prehistoric methods of bad governance. In this modern era, the Pakistani leadership can make Turkey, Malaysia, UAE or South Korea as its role models and copy and implement

their economic policies in the country. Pakistan has survived many economic shocks due to its undocumented economy which is a blessing in disguise. The documentation of the economy is necessary, but the government will have to carefully tread on a thorny path as it should not affect the real economic growth. According to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, the country is on the right track and economic indicators are showing improvement. The tax to GDP ratio hasincreased from 8.5 percent to 10 percent and the revenues collections have registered 18.2 percent growth. The minister is right to his words; the jugglery of Rigures never brought any good to the nation in the past and nothing good will happen in the future.

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Non-oil sector revenues to drive 3.8% GDP growth DUBAI: The MENA region is expected to witness a 3.8 percent growth in GDP in 2016, revealed an Al-Masah Capital Limited Report titled ‘MENA Yearbook – 2016’. In contrast, the global economic growth prospects are somewhat modest with the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) lowering their forecasts to 2.4 percent, 3.1 percent and 2.9 percent respectively. The sharp decline in oil prices, various global factors and rising geopolitical tensions meant that the MENA Region is estimated to have registered a lower GDP growth rate of 2.3 percent in 2015 as opposed to 2.6 percent a year earlier. According to the report, despite these headwinds the MENA region has continued its growth trajectory with the same expected this year on account of the various government initiatives to introduce alternative measures to boost revenues and GDP contributions of the non-oil sector.

Romanian investors keen to step in joint ventures with pak counterparts: envoy omanian Ambassador Emilian Ion has said that Romania wants to strengthen its business, educational and cultural relations with Pakistan and Romanian Embassy in Pakistan is making all out efforts in this regard.

He was talking to the LCCI Senior Vice President Almas Hyder here at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday. LCCI Executive Committee Members and Honorary Consul of Romania Usman Pirzada were also present on the occasion.

The Ambassador said that Pakistan is a

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resourceful country. It has all weathers, vast fertile land, best quality fruits and vegetable. He said that Romanian investors are keen to step in joint ventures with their Pakistani counterparts. He said that honorary consulates, Business Council Friends of Romania Group have been established in Pakistan to strengthen mutual economic ties. He said that exchange of delegations between Romania and Pakistan can help boost the bilateral trade volume which at the moment does not match the potential exist in the two countries. The Ambassador said that Romania, being one of the largest members of the European Union, has many reasons for Pakistani businessmen to collaborate with their Romanian counterparts. He said that Pakistan and Romania can enhance their cooperation in the fields of Agriculture, Alternate Energy Sources and Information Technology. He urged the business community to evolve an effective and sector-specific strategy in collaboration with Romanian businessmen for increasing the volume of two-way trade.—CB Report

Wednesday February 17, 2016

Chambers

Australia ready to cooperate with pak in agriculture, energy sectors: envoy P

ISLAMABAD

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akistan was facing some challenges and Australia was ready to cooperate with it in multiple sectors including agriculture, energy, exploration of natural resources, information technology, health, education and value chain to uplift its economic profile, observed Ms. Margaret Adamson, High Commissioner of Australia while addressing business community at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

She said Pakistan was in the driving seat globally in IT sector with young and talented pool of IT professional and this area has great potential for mutual cooperation between the two countries. She said water conservation and optimum utilization of water was another area of great interest for Pakistan and Australia as both could face water shortage issue. She said their strong cooperation in this area could help them to cope with this challenge more effectively.

She said Pakistan was a strong market of 200 million people with

abundant natural resources while Australia possessed advanced technology and expertise in many Rields, so both countries have good potential to complement each other in many areas. She said this region had great opportunities for business and investment and opined that CPEC was vital to strengthen the regional connectivity and promote regional integration.

Ms. Margaret Adamson said Australia could supply LNG to Pakistan to overcome its energy issues. She

was of the view that Pakistan’s proRile as an investment destination was needed to be further uplifted to attract more Australian investment.

However, she assured that Australia would continue to work with Pakistan in agriculture, energy, health, education and other sectors to strengthen its economy.

In his welcome address, Atif Ikram Sheikh, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said Pakistan and Australia enjoyed good political relations which should

SccI for enhancing export volume

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SIALKOT

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ialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) President Mansoor Ahmed on Sunday said that SCCI had focused its special attention towards enhancing export volume to help strengthen the national economy.

Talking to APP, he said that strengthening of national economy had become imperative at this juncture and business community of Sialkot was ready to play its vibrant role with missionary zeal in this regard. The SCCI President underscored the need of promotion and strengthening the SME sector for doubling the export volume.

Sialkot is an export-oriented city and hub of cottage industry which represents SME sector and playing its signiRicant role not only in pro-

viding employment opportunities but also strengthening the national exchequer, he said.

Mansoor said that SCCI had focused its special attention on the promotion of SME sector of Sialkot and initiated a series of programmes for creating awareness among the SMEs about the fast changing business trends and modern technology enabling them to play their frontline role in enhancing the trade volume.

“We are considering to arrange foreign tours for SMEs with the active cooperation of Commerce Ministry and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP),” he said. The SCCI President further said that a majority of local SMEs were running their business on self-Rinance bases and without any government assistance, adding that basically unique export culture of Sialkot is based on SMEs set-up and there are very few big industrial units and by virtue this

Sialkot is earning US 2 billion dollars through its exports annually. The step was being taken for the capacity building of SMEs and enabling them to reduce production cost and further improve the quality of their products to cope with the international markets easily, he said. He said that maximum participation of SMEs would be ensured in trade delegations while seminars and workshops would also be arranged for creating awareness among the SMEs about the advancement of international markets, he added. The SCCI, he said, ‘Khud Kifalat Rozgar Trust’ had been initiated through philanthropic business community of Sialkot aimed at promoting well-being of poor and the needy segment of society. The concept of this project was to provide Rinancial assistance to the people with limited Rinancial resources to help them generate employment or business opportunities, he said.

be transformed into growing trade and economic relations. He said bilateral trade of US$ 485 million during 2014-15 between Pakistan and Australia was far less than their real potential and stressed that both countries should focus on exchange of trade delegations on regular basis to identify new avenues of mutual cooperation. He said Australia should share its advanced agro-technology, expertise and quality seeds with Pakistan to improve productivity and quality of its agro products.

pSX among top 10 best stock exchanges: Haroon akistan Stock Exchange (PSX) Deputy Managing Director Haroon Askari said that stock exchange is a great platform to raise capital for business expansion and growth. He said raising capital from capital market was more beneficial for private sector as it also increased the value of equity capital of well performing companies. He gave a detailed presentation to the business community during a seminar on the formation of PSX and its benefits, especially for small investors. The seminar was organized by Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) in collaboration with Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) here.—CB Report

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Gold hits 2-year high of Rs 55,800 per tola in Nepal Wednesday February 17, 2016

World

KATHMANDU: Gold hit a two-year high of Rs55,800 per tola, surging Rs1,000 per tola on Friday as world stock markets tumbled, the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers Association (Fenegosida) said.

The association said that gold prices had jumped Rs2,200 per tola over the week. On Sunday, the yellow metal traded at Rs53,300 per tola before dropping to Rs53,000 on Monday. It gained Rs1,000 per tola on Tuesday to settle at Rs54,000. Rices remained stable on Wednesday and increased to Rs54,500 on Thursday. Tej Ratna Shakya, former president of the association, said that falling world stock markets was the major reason behind the rise in gold prices as nervous investors turned to “safe haven” buying, pushing up demand for the yellow metal.

customs seizes 125kg Norwegian coins OLSO

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Chinese tourist was stopped at Oslo Airport with four burlap sacks Rilled with 125 kilos of Norwegian coins, customs ofRicials said here the other day.

The tourist arrived in Oslo from Shanghai via Moscow on Friday with four sacks full of Norwegian ten and 20 kroner coins that he said he had purchased from various coin dealers in China. The 29-year-old Chinese citizen also had coins in his checked luggage. “On the luggage trolley were a rolling suitcase and four colourful burlap sacks. He was due to stay with a friend in Oslo for Rive days,” custom ofRicial Hans Wilhelmsen said.

The tourist told ofRicials that he had paid the equivalent of 15,000 kroner for the coins, which turned out to be a steal.

Dubai customs seizes goods worth Dhs17m in 2015 ubai Customs has said it carried out 135 seizures of fake goods worth Dhs16.8 million in 2015. The items included electronics, watches, glasses, clothing, fabrics, perfumes and cosmetics, medicines and medical equipment, tyres, auto spare parts, telephones and accessories and computers. Saeed Ahmed Al Tayer, Executive Director of Policies and Legislation Division at Dubai Customs, said: “Dubai Customs’ efforts in the area of protection of intellectual property rights is not limited to addressing the smuggling of counterfeit goods through customs ports, but also includes parallel awareness-raising efforts for DC staff and staff of local, federal and GCC government agencies, as well as many community groups to publicise the importance of intellectual property rights and the risks resulting from the consumption of counterfeit materials on health, the economy and society.—CB Report

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“OfRicials uncovered coins worth 220,970 kroner in the man’s baggage and checked luggage. The coins weighed a total of 125 kilogrammes,” the statement from customs said. Because the man had not declared the currency, he and his coins were transferred to the Oslo Police at the passport.

While the man’s fate was not immediately known, he risks having the entire amount conRiscated if Norwegian Customs suspects criminal activity. If no criminal activity is suspected, customs ofRicials will impose a 20 percent penalty on the money. A similar incident sprung up in Denmark in 2013 when two Chinese citizens were detained for 48 days after bringing a large bag of Danish coins that were originally thought to be counterfeit.

The two tourists were allowed to go free after the Danish central bank determined that the coins, which totaled over €32,000 were legit and obtained in China from a scrap metal consignment company.

Ireland customs seizes cigarettes, tobacco worth €10,700

DUBLIN

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evenue ofRicers have seized contraband cigarettes and tobacco worth around €10,700 in Co Tipperary.

The Rind was made after Revenue ofRicers stopped a car in Golden here

Taiwan, china, philippines bust drug trafficking ring

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oint efforts by Taiwan, China and the Philippines have resulted in the busting of a cross-border drug trafRicking ring, the Penghu District Prosecutors OfRice said. Law enforcement ofRicers involved in the joint efforts seized more than 70 kilograms of drugs and raw materials for drug production, valued at over NT$120 million (US$3.57 million), in the Philippines, Taiwanese prosecutors in Penghu, an outlying island of Taiwan, said. A total of eight suspects in the drug trafRicking group, including

a Chinese national surnamed Zhou, have been caught in Cagayan, a small island located in the northern Philippines, by the country’s Drug Enforcement Agency, the prosecutors in Penghu said. Zhou was the leader of the drug trafRicking ring. The drugs seized by the joint efforts were comprised of 22.6 kilograms of amphetamine, 11.4 kilograms of ephedrine, which is a raw material used for amphetamine production, and about 40 kilograms of calcium chloride, the prosecutors said. —CB Report

the other day and searched the vehicle. They discovered a quantity of illicit cigarettes and in a follow-up search, under warrant, of the driver’s residence, they uncovered more cigarettes and tobacco.

22,800 cigarettes – branded Royal Classic, Jim, MG, NZ Gold, Che, Marlboro and Monte Carlo – were seized as well as 200 grams of tobacco, which was branded Amber Leaf and Cherry Choice.

In total, the products were worth

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€10,700 – a potential loss to the Exchequer of €9,100.

The car in which the cigarettes were found was also seized by ofRicers. A man in his 50s was questioned. A Rile is being prepared for the DPP. Revenue asks anyone with information about the smuggling or sale of illegal cigarettes or tobacco to contact them on Freephone 1800 295 295. Meanwhile, A man in 40s has been arrested in connection with an investigation into the seizure of €930,000 worth of drugs.

Yesterday evening, gardai searched a house in Tallaght, Dublin 24 and discovered around 13 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of over €930,000. A small quantity of Ecstasy tablets was also seized. A garda spokesperson said the man was arrested in a follow-up operation. He is currently detained at Ballymun Garda Station under the provisions of Section 2 Criminal Justice (Drug TrafRicking) Act 1996 as amended.

Brits accused of smuggling guns wo British men are being held in Greece on suspicion of carrying guns and ammunition across the border to Turkey. The Iraqi-born men were arrested on Saturday night in the Greek port city of Alexandroupolis. They are thought to have been planning to join Kurdish forces Righting Islamic State. Dozens of Rirearms, tens of thousands of bullets and telescopic sights were stowed in a caravan. It is thought the weapons were intended for training rather than combat. There is some confusion over details about the men, with the Greek coastguard saying they are aged 35 and 36, the Press Association saying

they are in their 20s and Reuters news agency saying they are 22 and 28. The AFP news agency reported that a third older man, also with a British passport, was arrested at the Kipi border post on the Evros River, near the Greek-Turkish border. The Greek coastguard says the men had been monitored for days before they were arrested but said there was no evidence to connect them to Islamic State and they were not on any terrorist or criminal database. The men are due to appear before magistrates over the next few days on suspicion of illegal possession of weapons and smuggling.—CB Report

kuwait’s DcgD nabs 15 on drug smuggling charges

D KUWAIT

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rugs Control General Department (DCGD) officers arrested 15 suspects of different nationalities yesterday on drug smuggling charges.

DCGD officials estimated the total amounts of drugs confiscated

with the suspects at 260 kilograms hashish, 25 grams of shabu (meth), 250 grams pf heroin in addition to several seedlings of Marijuana and 2,175 illicit tablets.

DCGD said eight suspects are being processed for deportation after they were arrested and charged with helping drugs pushers.

Meanwhile, A US citizen was recently arrested with the posses-

sion of KD 300,000 worth of methamphetamine (meth), which were hidden in a parcel he imported by airmail, said security sources. The suspect had been practicing his illegal trade and delivering the drugs to his clients for a while, the sources noted.

Case papers indicate that narcotics’ police were tipped off with information concerning the sus-

pect’s activity.

After placing him under close surveillance for weeks, during which he received the parcel and stored at his house, detectives raided the place and found 20 kilograms of meth, as well as eight large and 150 small bags full of the same drug. A case was filed and the suspect was referred to relevant authorities.

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Cam Pha port handles over 33,000 tonnes of coal HANOI: Cam Pha port and logistics company, an affiliate of the Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin), in the northern province of Quang Ninh loaded 33,000 tonnes of coal for two ships on February 8, the first day of the Year of the Monkey.

The Hai Phong 19 and Vinacomin Ha Long vessels– the first New Year footers in the port, are to supply coal to Vinh Tan 2 thermal power plant and Duyen Hai 1 thermal power plant, respectively.

Last year, Cam Pha port handled over 25 million tonnes of coal, 674,000 of which was for exports. It earned more than 37 trillion VND (1.68 billion USD) in revenue.

Taiwan’s economy deteriorating: Ifo aiwan’s economy is deteriorating this quarter compared with last quarter, as private investment and consumption showed further weakness, according to the latest Ifo World Economic Survey, which was released on Thursday evening.

The outlook might not brighten in the next six months, as the global economic landscape continues to cloud over, which is unfavorable for the nation’s exports, the German-based institute’s quarterly survey found.

The first-quarter survey results ran counter to statements by the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics that the economy has likely bottomed out and would start to recover soon. The score for the macroeconomy came in at 1.2 for the current quarter, down from 1.9 in the

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Hamburg port sees container trade decrease in 2015

WASHINGTON

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final quarter of last year, the survey of 1,085 experts from 210 countries said.

The National Development Council helped gather information for the Ifo survey on Taiwan: Scores between 1 and 3.5 indicate contraction, while those at about 5 signify stagnation and values between 6 and 9 suggest a positive trend.

Capital expenditure dropped to 1 this quarter, falling from 2.6 three months earlier, while private consumption softened from 3.5 to 1.4, the Ifo report showed. The findings suggested a persistent downtrend after the domestic economy slipped into a recession in the second half of last year — with GDP contracting 0.28 percent last quarter and 0.63 percent three months earlier. The official statistics agency is due to update GDP figures next week. The Ifo survey assigned a 5.8 score for Taiwan’s six-month outlook, little changed from 5.7 previously, the report said.—CB Report

Ports & Shipping

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igher bulk cargo throughput and strong growth in rail and inland waterway seaport-hinterland trafRic – downturn in container handling. In 2015 seaborne cargo throughput in the Port of Hamburg was 5.4 percent lower at 137.8 million tons.

In Hamburg as a universal port, growth in bulk cargo throughput was maintained in 2015. In this important handling segment, total volume of 45.5 million tons represented growth of 5.8 percent on the previous year. In 2015 container

handling at 8.8 million TEU (20-ft standard containers) did not reach the previous year’s total, falling 9.3 percent and signiRicantly lower.

Senator Frank Horch highlighted the port’s great signiRicance for Hamburg, warning against talking it down: “Anybody familiar with the port business will realize that the Port of Hamburg’s success cannot be measured solely in TEU. Its success is composed of many elements. What makes the Port of Hamburg strong is its character as a universal port. The Port of Hamburg is actually one of the largest and most varied industrial zones in Germany. Cargo handling, logistics and industry are closely intermeshed here and mutually cross-fertilizing.

The port consists of the sum of these numerous and multi-facetted activi-

ties, something that cannot be described by throughput Rigures alone. I most urgently warn you against conjuring up crises. That harms our port and plays into the hands of our competitors. For us, economic Rluctuations are nothing new – they are part of our business. Nobody disputes that we are confronted by great challenges.

But, together, we shall master them!”

The Port of Hamburg reports around 30 percent local container cargo as well as growing seaport-hinterland container transport by rail, up by 2.8 percent, and by inland waterway vessels, up by 27.5 percent. As an industrial universal port, it performs an outstanding and indispensable function in supplying the local economy at its location and in the region, along with core markets inland.

Wednesday February 17, 2016

200 agents suspended at ports he agents are also accused of failure to collect relevant documents regarding their respective outstanding balances with TPA. Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Communications Manager, Ms Janet Ruzangi, confirmed to the ‘Daily News’ in Dar es Salaam that the harbours’ body has already handed over letters on the suspension to the agents. “The agents have been suspended effective February 9, 2016. They will only be allowed to operate after submitting evidence of port duties payment,” Ms Ruzangi told this newspaper. She explained that the clearing and forwarding companies will also not be allowed to operate with TPA associates, including Tanzania International Container Terminal Services Ltd (TICTS), Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and Car Freight Stations (CFSs). Prominent among suspended agents are Bakhresa Food Products Ltd, METL, Korufreight (T) Ltd, Arusha Cargo Clearing and Forwarding Ltd, Arusha Freight, Afritel System Ltd, Babylon Freight Ltd and 21st Century Freight Forwarders. Others are Uwanji General Traders Ltd, Sangare Express Ltd, Freight 24/7 Ltd, Full Cargo Support Ltd, Efficient Freighters, Khan’s C and F Ltd, Tanga Cargo and Trust Ltd, Upland Freight Ltd. Last December, TPA unveiled a theft of 11,884 containers from inland container depots (ICDs) and 2,019 car freight stations (CFSs) that were cleared at the Dar es Salaam Port without remitting government revenue. —CB Report

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oakland port container imports rise 75% in Jan

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WASHINGTON

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mports rose more than 75% at the Port of Oakland in January, signaling the West Coast has recovered much of its normal volume a year after many businesses diverted cargo to other ports amid widespread delays.

The Port of Oakland imported 77,637 twenty-foot equivalent units, a standard measure for container cargo, in January, up from 44,171 in

the same month last year, the port said. Oakland imported 72,469 containers in January 2014.

Oakland was the Rirst major U.S. port to report its January monthly volume, but the rise in imports is in line with retailer estimates. On Tuesday, a National Retail Federation report estimated that retail imports at the nation’s major ports would grow 18.3% in January, relative to the same period last year. The growth is particularly high because of last year’s congestion on the West Coast. February will likely continue

that trend, the NRF said.

Port ofRicials in Oakland also attributed the bump in volume to importers stocking their shelves ahead of the Lunar New Year on Feb. 8, a major holiday in Asia during which factory production slows signiRicantly. Oakland also reported export growth of nearly 17% year over year for January. Exports haven’t rebounded as quickly as imports because the strong dollar is making U.S.-produced goods more expensive for foreign buyers.

The port handled 67,272 full ex-

port containers in January, which, aside from January and February of last year, is one of the worst months the port has seen for exports in years. The nationwide downward trend in export trade has been attributed to the strength of the U.S. dollar paired with weak foreign economies.

One of Oakland’s Rive container terminals is set to close down in mid-March. The port has said it plans to keep the same volumes moving through its four remaining operational terminals.

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ANF arrests 17 drug traffickers in Jamrud, Khyber Agency PESHAWAR: At least 16 alleged drug sellers were arrested by the AntiNarcotics Forces (ANF) and Jamrud Political Administration in anti-narcotics campaign launched here in Wazir Dand area of tehsil Jamrud of Khyber Agency.

Tehsildar Jamrud Asmatullah, while sharing the details said, a Khasadar party under his supervision raided different markets and shops in Wazirdand and arrested 17 alleged drug dealers. The detained persons were sent to Jamrud lock up for investigation.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

CUSTOMS BULLETIN

customs officials should boost surveillance to curb smuggling: collector Ahmed Reza SIALKOT SALEEM AwAN SHEIkHU www.customsbulletin.com

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ollector Customs Ahmed Raza presided over a meeting of Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO) in Gujranwala.

Sources told Customs Today that Collector Ahmad Raza told the meeting that the government has made a plan to curb smuggling from countries like Afghanistan, India, China, Russia and Iran. He directed all the ofRicials concerned and departments to enhance their surveillance on roads and check all suspicious vehicles which come from Quetta, Peshawar and Karachi.

He said ofRicials can play a vital role in elimination of smuggling because smuggling is harmful for the economy.

He said, “We are Pakistani and we should prefer local made goods.” He said we also should degrade and arrest smugglers whereas register cases against them as per Customs laws. He said the Customs intelligence ofRicials should watch all markets, plazas and shops day by day without any confusion and any shopkeeper will involve in selling of smuggling items then the ofRicials

should take action against guilty shopkeeper. He said it has come into knowledge of customs authority various shopkeepers are selling smug-

gling items on behalf of Afghan Transit Trade but it is illegal, therefore, these shopkeeper should not spare.

He said the government has issued

orders for strict action against smugglers and customs department is doing compliance of government while Customs department has already

against smuggling and it is mission is 100 percent for elimination of smuggling and customs department has got fruitful result.

peshawar customs seizes smuggled goods worth Rs 24.22m PESHAWAR

M HAYAT

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he Collector Custom has launched a special campaign to curb the growing menace of smuggling and seized a large quantity of smuggled goods worth millions of rupees in various raids during the last one week.

The campaign has been launched under the supervision of Muhammad Ali Asad Khan, Assis-

tant Collector Anti-Smuggling.

Giving breakup of the seizures, a spokesman for the Customs Collectorate said that the custom mobile squad No.1 conRiscated 4,0500 yards imported cloth, 120 LED TV and 18 bags of dandasa from a truck near Akbarpura being smuggled to Punjab. The estimated cost of the seized goods stated to be Rs 24.22 millions.

In other activity, the same squad seized 110 bags of imported black tea from a vehicle No.C-8629 in Peshawar city, and conRiscated the vehicle. In the third activity, mobile squad No.2 conRiscated 4752 pack-

ets of foreign origin juices, 150 compressors, 57 cartons of foreign soaps, 12 carton cigarettes, 103 LED TVs and three carton foreign quality toothpaste and other goods.

The campaign against smuggling would continue, he said adding other law enforcing agencies cooperation was a must to this effect.

Meanwhile, Kharlachi Customs Station at the Pak-Afghan border in Kurrram Agency has been computerized to bring transparency in the system and traders would get all the facilities on the border. Sources told Customs Today that the land has been acquired for establishing

modern customs stations at Kharlachi, Borki and Tri Mengal. After installation of One Customs Online System, the Kharlachi station has been linked with computer system all over the country, enabling exporters and importers to get all the facilities at the border. The system besides bringing transparency it would yield increase in revenue.

Meanwhile, customs clearing agent and importer and exporter Shujauddin lauded the online system, said backward areas like Parachinar would greatly beneRit from the move. Meanwhile, Partially improving its target, Custom

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Collectorate Peshawar has collected Rs 1,377.94 million under the head of various duty collections in January against Rs 1,289.52 total collection in January last year with total difference of Rs 88.42 million.

According to available data with Customs Today, Peshawar Custom House collected Rs 518.77 million under the head of custom duty in gross against the previous year collections of Rs 422.87 million with difference of Rs 95.90 million. In term of sale tax on import, the Custom House collected Rs 387.02 million against Rs 426.50 million with difference of Rs 39.48 million.