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Karachi, Thu October 5, 2017

ISLAMABAD

TARIQ DERYA

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he Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) Islamabad surpassed the assigned revenue collection target for 1st Quarter FY2017-18 by Rs450.52million of all duties and taxes. The Federal Board of Revenue allocated Rs3118.07million collection target to the collectorate under all the heads while it col-

lected Rs3568.59million during the 1st-Q FY17-18.

According to details given by Dr. Saeed Jadoon, Collector MCC Islamabad, that the collectorate achieved a surplus performance against the earmarked revenue target for 1stQ FY17-18 with 114.45% percent. During the month of September FY17-18, the MCC Islamabad earned Rs1092.67million of all duties and taxes whereas it set Rs1095.45million as revenue target for Sep-

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tember FY17-18. The collectorate achieved the target with an increase of 103.14% against the assigned target for said period.

Jadoon said that, during the month of August FY17-18, the MCC Islamabad received Rs1515.38million as all duties and taxes against the allocated revenue collection target of Rs1205.90million. During said period, the collectorate got earmarked target with 125.66% against the assigned target.

Customs impounds NDP smuggled BMW on tip-off worth Rs15.5m

DG Surriya to revise Valuation Ruling No: 803/2016 on Oct 16

Customs seizes huge quantity of NDP milk from Badami Bagh

Pakistan, Vietnam agree to promote economic cooperation, trade

Multan Customs unearths tax evasion of Rs57.6m against M/s PSO

Customs I&I FBR Rawalpindi, has launched a drive against smuggled vehicles | SEE pAgE 02 |

DG Valuation,has decided to revise the Valuation Ruling No: 803/2016 | SEE pAgE 03 |

CustomsteamseizedhugequantityofNDP milk and cigarettes from Badami Bagh | SEE pAgE 04 |

Pakistan and Vietnam agreed to initiate steps to enhance bilateral trade | SEE pAgE 14 |

Multan Customs has detected a tax evasion of Rs57.6million against PSO | SEE pAgE 16 |

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NAB seizes record of FBR officers ‘involved in tax evasion’ Thursday, October 5, 2017

RAWALPINDI: In a ‘unique’ action, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has raided the Federal Board of Revenue’s regional office in Rawalpindi and seized record of FBR officials allegedly involved in tax evasion.

Sources said that NAB Rawalpindi raided FBR’s regional office in connection with the involvement of some FBR officials in tax evasion. The investigators of NAB took record into custody and started investigations.

Islamabad

customs impounds nDp smuggled Bmw on tip-off worth Rs15.5 million

ISLAMABAD

ISLAMABAD

nAEEm uLLAh TARIQ

m fAIZAn

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iming to facilitate complainants, Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) produced an observation about provision of legal documents for taxpayer petitioner. FTO reiterated the declaration of public record and enlisted a number of documents made to be public in accordance with the section o8 of FTO. The list included the documents pertaining to grant of licenses, allotments and other benefits, privileges and contract, and agreements made a public body. The list also contained record regarding transaction involving acquisition and disposal of property and expenditures undertaken by a public body in the performance of its duties. Final decisions and orders of appropriate forums were also part of the list and were termed as public record made to be available to complainants. Office of FTO had described this observation while disposing a case filed by advocate Saeed Ashraf. The case was filed against secretary revenue division, Islamabad. The appellant had submitted the complaint under section 19 of Freedom of Information Ordinance (2002) challenging non-provision of information requested under section 12 of FIO, 2002.

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he Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation, Federal Board of Revenue Rawalpindi, has launched a drive against smuggled vehicles and took into possession a used foreign origin non-duty-paid smuggled BMW 745i car worth Rs15.5million.

On a tip-off, a team of the directorate general customs intelligence and investigation Rawalpindi, comprising Intelligence OfSicers Maqbool Ahmad and Shahid Majeed, signalled the tipped-off car to stop but the driver accelerated the vehicle.

The staff started chasing the BMW in a government vehicle. After covering some distance, the driver parked the BMW on the roadside and Sled the scene. Despite hectic efforts, the team could not trace out the driver of the car, so the vehicle was impounded in the presence of the witnesses.

No import record existed as per import data of the vehicles available with the directorate. Nobody appears before the Rawalpindi directorate nor produced any legal import documents in respect of recovered foreign origin vehicle.

Hence, the BMW car was taken into possession being non-duty-paid and unclaimed under Section 17 of the Customs Act-1969 for further veriSication of its import and auction sta-

fTo for provision of legal documents to taxpayers

tus and payment of duty and taxes.

Meanwhile, The Customs Car Cell of the Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) Islamabad impounded a NonDuty-Paid V-8 (ZX) worth Rs17.5million, Model 1992, from Murree Road Rawalpindi on 25th of September 2017. According to details given by sources of MCC to Customs Today

that, on a tip-off shared by Collector MCC Dr Saeed Khan Jadoon, the car cell set up a picket on Murree Road Rawalpindi and intercepted the nonduty-paid car with fake registration No: LEE-8342. The car cell staff asked the possessor to provide the original documents of the car, but he failed to do so. After the Sirsthand

investigation, the car cell took into possession the vehicle and brought it to the state warehouse. An FIR has been lodged against the owner of the NDP vehicle. The authorities concerned revealed that the documents of the car were checked by the registration authority, which proved as counterfeit.

Ihc adjourns hearing of case filed by collector customs

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ISLAMABAD

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slamabad High Court division bench comprising Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani dated in office hearing of an appeal filed

by Collector Customs Islamabad.

The department had challenged a decision announced by Customs Appellate Tribunal by filing a case against Sheikh Zubair

and others.

This customs matter was filed by the department in ongoing year and the court dated in office further proceedings on the matter. M/s Wahaj Enterprises customs case during third week of September.

Earlier the same bench had issued notices for further proceedings against Customs Appellate Tribunal, Islamabad and Collectorate of Customs, Islamabad.

It is pertinent to mention that

the matter was filed with the court in 2008. The matter was pending with the court since then as the parties had been delaying hearing on the case. Barrister Masroor Shah, Muhammad Naeem Qazi, Raja Muhammad Tariq, Shan Zeb Khan, Sikandar Naeem Qazi had represented the appellant the case while Amin Feroze Khan, Naziran Malik, Muhammad Nawaz had contested on behalf of Customs Appellate Tribunal in the case.

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Chief Collector, others served notices in Climate Certificate case KARACHI: The Sindh High Court’s Customs appellate bench has issued notices for Sept 28 to Appraisement East Chief Collector Shaikh Rasheed and other officials in a petition challenging demand of “Climate Certificate”. The bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Omar Siyal, heard Ms Dil Khurram Shaheen advocate, counsel for petitioner Brother Recyling Unit which imported a consignment of scrap/used tyres. The consignment is lying on the port since many days despite petitioner filed all documents including “Environment Certificate” but the Chief Collector Custom, Appraisement East wrote down a note asking the petitioner/importer to file a “Climate Certificate”.

m/s kontinental moves Shc for release of security money

Thursday October 5, 2017

Karachi

Dg Surriya to revise Valuation Ruling no: 803/2016 on oct 16

KARACHI

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he Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the customs authorities and deputy attorney general on a constitutional petition filed by M/s Kontinental Establishment, seeking release of security money. While the hearing of the petition, a two-member bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Umer Sial, also directed them to file their respective para wise comments on the next date of hearing. The court also adjourned the matter for October 9, 2017. Earlier, counsel for the petitioner stated that petitioner is importer of UPS from China and fulfills all the liabilities properly, it purchased SAKO Brand UPS from China.

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communication Room established at Appraisement west KARACHI

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ustoms Appraisement West has set up a Communication Room at Customs House Karachi for making or receiving important and emergency calls. In pursuance of the directives of Chief Collector, who has barred assessment/examination staff from using personal mobile phones during work hours, the Appraisement West has setup a Communication Room with dedicated phone No. 021-99214808 for assessment staff, while a dedicated number 02132310758 has been installed in Steno Room for examination staff at port area. For storing the personal cell phones and other belongings during working hours, lockers have also been provided in the room. All the staff posted at assessment/examination area has been directed to use the phone lines of Communication Room.

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KARACHI

wAQAR AhmED AnSARI www.customsbulletin.com

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irectorate General, Customs Valuation, Director General Surriya Ahmed Butt, has decided to revise the Valuation Ruling No: 803/2016 on Monday (October 16), it is learnt here.

Surriya Butt has said the department is reviewing suggestions from importers to set new prices. She further said some valuations, issued in 2014, 2015 and 2016, were being reviewed from the beginning. Moreover, the valuations will be set in view of rising prices in the international market.

Sources told reporter that a petition was submitted by the importers to Customs Valuation in which change in prices of Melamine Powder was requested. Sources said the Valuation Ruling No: 803/2016 was issued on January 22, 2016.

A meeting was held with the stakeholders on 18th of September 2017. Importers were told to furnish the import invoices of the last three months showing factual values as well as websites, names and e-mail addresses of known foreign manufacturers of the item in question through which the actual current value could be ascertained.

Meanwhile, The Directorate General of Customs Valuation has revised the customs value of welding electrodes (MS, SS, BRONZE Valuation Ruling No:

1211/2017 under Section 25A of the Customs Act-1969. The customs value of welding electrodes was determined vide Valuation Ruling No. 832/2016 dated 1504-2016. M/s Ashraf traders and importer approached the Directorate General of Customs Valuation for revision of values of welding electrodes, particularly E6013 of mild steel, for the reason that prices of commodity have decreased internationally. An exer-

The customs value of welding electrodes was determined vide Valuation Ruling no. 832/2016 dated 15-04-2016. m/s Ashraf traders and importer approached the Dg Valuation for revision of values of welding electrodes, particularly E6013 of mild steel, for the reason that prices of commodity have decreased internationally

Investors urge fBR to release Rs46b tax refunds

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KARACHI

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oreign investors urged the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to release the stuck refunds to the tune of Rs46 billion on a priority basis to help them avert their liquidation problems.

The members of Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) irked over a huge amount of refund claims that were

not settled despite repeated pledges by the FBR authorities.

OICCI, which is a platform to promote foreign investments, is playing a major role in growth of commerce and industry in the country.

The chamber has also approached the FBR chairman for an immediate release of refund amount.

“Total refunds of all the companies are around Rs46 billion, which is about 4.5 percent of total tax and levies paid by (OICCI) member companies in 2016,” the member said,

requesting anonymity.

OICCI members are contributing around one-third of the total tax collection in the country. The chamber is closely working with FBR and other key functionaries in the government, both at the federal and provincial levels, the member added. The member said the purpose of approaching the FBR chairman was to seek his urgent attention to settle the longpending tax refund claims of OICCI members.

cise to re-determine the customs value of the said goods under Section 25-A of the Customs Act1969 was initiated to reflect their current international price trend of subject items.

Stakeholders’ participation in determination of customs values: Meetings with all stakeholders were scheduled on 24-07-2017, 10.08.2017 and 06.09.2017. Meetings were attended by manufacturers M/s Shanghai Industries Pvt.

RTo-II collects Rs3889 million he Regional Tax Office-2 (RTOII) of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has collected Rs3889 million during the first 20 days of September 2017. The RTO-I collected Rs 3392 million in the wake of income tax, Rs 480 million as sales tax and Rs 17 million under the head of federal excise duty (FED) during the said period.

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FTO adjourns hearing of case filed by M/s Bhatti Rice Mills Thursday October 5, 2017

Lahore

LAHORE: The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has heard the case filed by proprietor of Bhatti Rice Mills against the Regional Tax Office, (RTO-II) Lahore until the next date of hearing.

FTO Advisor Tariq Yousaf heard the case filed by proprietor of Bhatti Rice Mills. The counsel for the appellant argued that the RTO had failed to release the sales tax refund to the appellant for the last two years. He said that RTO-II collected excessive tax from the company during the last two years. The petitioner approached the officials concerned several times for issuance of the refunds, but the RTO officials failed to clear the refunds after the passage of reasonable time.

Finally, the appellant decided to approach the FTO seeking interference in this case.

customs court sends accused to jail on judicial remand of 14 days LAHORE

m ImRAn mEhAR

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he Special Court of Customs Taxation and Anti-Smuggling has granted a 14-day judicial remand of an accused in a cigarette smuggling case.

The customs investigation team presented an accused Rameez Iftikhar before the court of customs taxation and anti-smuggling judge.

The customs investigation team asked the court that they have completed the investigation from the accused in a Sive-day physical remand.

On the request of customs team, Shakeel Ahmad, judge of the customs court, sent him to jail on judicial trial. Accused Rameez Iftikhar was arrested on the charges of smuggling of cigarettes to America.

Vehicles demand to rise up to 0.5 million he demand of four-wheel vehicles will rise from 0.25 million up to 0.5 million in Pakistan within next 12 years. It was disclosed by Provincial Chief of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA), Sindh, in a report sent to SMEDA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sher Ayub at Head Office, according to the Authority’s spokesman. The report adds that CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) was also bringing a lot of opportunities in the auto sector, which would benefit the transport warehousing and freight forwarding services by further expanding the auto and logistic sector. The report informs that auto sector was one of the fastest growing sectors in Pakistan and Japan was concentrating to collaborate with Pakistan to meet the augmenting demand of four-wheel vehicles in Pakistan. –CB Report

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He was attempting to smuggle cigarettes into USA while declared them cloths. The value of the goods is more than Rs1.3million.

Meanwhile, about 17 other cases were also scheduled for hearing on Monday. Most of the cases were adjourned without any proceedings.

Framing of charges against Rasheed was also adjourned for next week. Final arguments and statements of the parties concerned in a case of smuggling against RaSique Ali were also scheduled for hearing which is rescheduled for next week.

Meanwhile, The Special Federal Court of Customs Taxation and AntiSmuggling has approved a 14-day judicial remand of two accused arrested in a mobile smuggling case.

Accused Abdul Waheed and Agha Wali were apprehended by the customs intelligence authorities on The Mall of Lahore.

customs seizes huge quantity of nDp milk from Badami Bagh LAHORE

m hAYAT

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irectorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigation team seized huge quantity of non duty paid milk and cigarettes from Badami Bagh during a crackdown. The market value of seized milk and cigarettes is Rs1 million.

Sources told Customs Today, that Director Customs Intelligence and Investigation Rubab Sikandar received credible information that some smugglers were planning to smuggle huge quantity of non duty paid milk and cigarettes. She immediate constituted a anti smuggling team under the supervision of Superintendent Nasir Minhas which also includes Inspector Ali Iqbal and others. The team intercepted a near Badami Bagh and during search recovered, 20 cartons of foreign origin

customs Tribunal rejects appeal filed by against collector multan

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ustoms Appellate Tribunal dismissed the appeal Siled by M/s Ahmed Shah, a resident of Quetta against the Collector of Customs Multan and others.

Member Judicial bench-II Omer Arshed Hakeem heard in details and passed the judgment that that appeal is being miserably time barred and is dismissed without new order and the impugned order passed by the adjudication authority stands in the same case. As per details, on the core controversy, the staff of Customs, ASO

Multan intercepted a truck loaded with scrape but infect containing smuggled goods beneath the scrape.

After the detailed examination of goods customs ofSicers found that some non duty paid goods were hidden beneath scrape and loaded truck was detained. After the show cause notice adjudication authority culminated proceeding and passed the order to goods conSiscated rightly only option to release goods on the payment of 20 percent redemption Sine of the value of goods. –CB Report

non duty paid Pine cigarettes and Sifty bags loaded with foreign origin powder milk. The team asked the driver of the vehicle who was later identiSied as Saleem to produce legal documents regarding possession and transportation of the loaded goods. Sources told that the driver of the vehicle failed to produce any legal documents regarding the goods.

After his failure Customs Intelli-

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gence and Investigation team impounded the vehicle and goods and registered a case against the owner of the goods and vehicle.

It is necessary to mention here that Director Customs Intelligence and Investigation Rubab Sikandar directed all anti smuggling team which are performing their duties in Sield areas to adopt zero tolerance policy towards smuggling.

fTo hears of case filed by m/s Amin fabrics ederal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Consultant Tariq Yousaf has heard a case filed by M/s Amin Fabrics against the Regional Tax Office (RTO-II) Lahore and adjourned the same until the next date of hearing. During the proceedings of case, the counsel for the appellant argued that the RTO-II had failed to release the sales tax refund to the appellant since last two years.

He said the RTO-II collecting excessive taxes from the company during the last two years. The petitioner approached the officials concerned several times for the release

of refunds, but the RTO officials failed to clear refunds after the passage of a reasonable time.

Finally, the appellant decided to approach the FTO seeking intervention in this case. The counsel appealed the FTO advisor to direct the RTO-II to clear the refund claims. On the other hand, counsel for RTO-II argued that the appellant has not submitted all record to the office for claiming refunds. If appellant provides the accurate record, the RTO-II will release refunds after a proper assessment, he added. –CB Report

pm&Dc moves fIA against fake notification

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LAHORE

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akistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) president Prof Dr Shabir Lehri has said the notification circulating in social media and public regarding a ban on house job and internship for foreign students is fake.

According to a press release issued on Monday, the PM&DC president in a statement clarified that the notification was fake and circulated at the media by some vested interests, and the notice had no link with PM&DC. He added foreign students and their parents are in panic due to this act.

He said this case had been sent to FIA Cybercrime Cell to investigate

the matter. He emphasised PM&DC MBBS BDS (admission, house job and internship) regulations 2016, which is not implemented as yet, is under litigation in different courts.

He informed the media that the graduates, who have done their MBBS and BDS from abroad and passed PM&DC National Examination Board exam (NEB) step III, are allowed to do their house job in

public or private PM&DC approved hospitals. He said PM&DC is trying its best to convince foreign countries offering admission to Pakistani students to offer jobs and house jobs to these foreign graduates. He said parents and students could seek queries and any type of information directly from the PM&DC ofSice or PM&DC website to prevent any miscommunication.

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HYDERABAD

ASLAm AnJum QuREShI www.customstoday.com

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he Anti-Smuggling Organization Hyderabad has conSiscated foreign origin non-duty-paid 200 smuggling cartons, each containing 4800 tin packs of Rani Juice, worth Rs240000 involving duties and taxes of Rs139440 during an action near check-post Dera More during the last week of September 2017-18.

The smuggling item was being transported from Iran into Pakistan.

Following strict instructions by Hyderabad Customs Collector Akhlaq Ahmad Khattaq, ASO team conducted various anti-smuggling activities to protect the national exchequer.

The team, headed by Additional Collector Customs Hyderabad Dr Aamer Nawaz Hamid, constituted a raiding party comprising Inspector ZulSiqar Jamali, In-charge Customs Check-Post, Dera More and Inspectors, Sepoys, Drivers and other staff. The team intercepted a vehicle near customs check-post and recovered above said crates of Rani Juice. The market value of the item is Rs379440 including duties and taxes.

Prior to the recovery, ofSicials asked the driver to produce any legal document about the possession of the item, but he was unable to produce anything legal, so the consignment was seized.

A case was registered and an investigation was also started. After making a seizure re-

port, the team deposited the impounded cartons into the Sukkur State Warehouse.

OfSicials said vigilance has been enhanced against the smuggling of vehicles on roads.

Meanwhile, The Anti-Smuggling Organization (ASO), Customs Preventive Hyderabad, has impounded 25,000 liters of smuggling HSD Iranian diesel along with an oil tanker.

The market value of the seized diesel is Rs05.6million including duties and taxes. The diesel was being transported from Hub Baluchistan to interior sindh during Septem-

mer r Dr Aa o t c e l ol uted a onal c onstit Additi c , d i z ham ising nawa compr y t r a i, Ingp Jamal raidin r a q fi l era tor Zu ost, D p k c e Inspec h oms c oys, e cust rs, Sep o t c e c h a rg sp and In r sta m o re d othe n a s r Drive

ber 2017-18.

Sources told Customs Today that Customs Collector Akhlaq Ahmad Khattaq ordered the curbing of smuggling. Additional Collector Hyderabad Dr Amer Nawaz Hamid received a tip-off regarding the smuggling of Iranian diesel. He formed an ASO team comprising Superintendent Amer Khan, Inspectors Shakeel Khan, Iqbal Mughal, Imdad Abro, Muhammad Abid Khan, Mushtaq Ali Lakho, Sepoys Sadiq Khaskheli, Abid, Drivers Sher Akbar, Ajaz Saddam, Jawaid Mashqoor, Nisar Ahmed and others.

The team intercepted the tanker with registration No: TAJ-806 near Superhighway, Hyderabad, PS Hatri and recovered the said quantity of smuggling HSD Iranian diesel. The market value of the seized oil tanker is Rs03.5million.

The ASO asked the occupants of the vehicle for producing legal documents regarding the possession of the motor vehicle and diesel, but they failed to do so. The ASO team confiscated the diesel besides impounding the oil tanker under the prevailing customs bylaws.

According to the sources, the raiding anti-smuggling team performed excellently. Collector Akhlaq Ahmad Khattaq said our team is showing extraordinary performance in aborting the smuggling attempts in the region.

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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

Economy in global perspective

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ccording to the latest Global Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum, Pakistan’s competitiveness has gained seven places to reach 115th position, showing improvement in various sectors of the economy in one year.The report also suggests improvement in competitiveness in many countries in South Asia. Bhutan rose up by 15 places to secure 82th position and Nepal by 10 places to stand at 88th.

Switzerland acquired the status of the most competitive economy in the world while the United States and Singapore came second and third in the global context. Pakistan has gained seven places across all pillars of competitiveness. India is down by one place to stand at 40th position and Sri Lanka has lost 14 places to acquire 85th position mainly due to corruption and inefficiency of the government bureaucracy which is hindering progress. According to the report, Pakistan has shown improvement in 82 indices but lost previous positions in 20 indices this year.

Among the 114 global competitiveness indicators the country retained its position on 12 indices. Unfortunately, corruption has been indicated as the principal factor in the way of doing business in Pakistan. Next to corruption are the irrational tax rates and political instability, which are arresting the progress. The forum had highlighted similar problems in its report last year, but no improvement has been made on this account this year too. Pakistan improved 21 ranks on the institutions pillar to stand at 90 from 111thposition last year.The country secured its ranking on Infrastructure pillar from 116 to 110 and improved 10 ranks to stands at 106th on the macroeconomic stability.Pakistan has lost one rankunder the head of health and primary education among 137 countries, but improved from 123 to 120 inhigher education.It secured 107th position in goods market efficiency, 128thin labour market efficiency,96thin financial market sophistication,111th in technological readiness and secured 28th position on the pillar of market size.According to a representative of the World Economic Forum, Pakistan has factor driven economy, which depends on improving its institutions, infrastructure, macroeconomic stability, health and primary education.

projects of regional connectivity A

LAHORE

DR AfTAB AfZAL

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ccording to newspaper reports, the Asian Development Bank has approved $800 million multi-tranche Sinancing facility to enhance regional connectivity and boost trade in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation corridors in Pakistan. Under the programme, the National Highway Authority will rehabilitate and upgrade 747 kilometer roads across the country, including Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The programme will expand the country’s links with central Asian states and will improve efSiciency of the road trafSic. The plan was

envisaged in 2013 to link Pakistan with Afghanistan, Central Asia and China and the total cost of the project could be nearly $5.6 billion.The international donor agencies will be involved in the development of infrastructure and the programme will not burden any particular country. The corridor will offer the shortest route to landlocked countries to transport their goods to Karachi and Gwadar. Pakistan is situated at the crossroads of Central Asia, China and South Asia and has the potential to become a regional transport and trade hub. The ADB programme will help the government realise potentials of trade and connectivity in the region.The connectivity programme will virtually

integrate and connect South Asia, Central Asia and Europe. After the development of the connectivity, Pakistan will have tremendous opportunities to trade with central Asian countries and beyond. So far, Pakistan’s trade is centered on sea trafSic while trade with central Asian states remained limited because of high freight cost and poor infrastructure. Upgrading the country’s roads will push overall economic growth. Pakistan has cultural and historical relations with Afghanistan and ensuring peace in that country would connect all the countries in the region. The open-border trade will be in the beneSit of each and every nation and it will be a win-win scenario for all the partner coun-

tries. Unfortunately, India is hitting its own foot by refusing to become partner in the regional connectivity programme. By taking part in the CPEC and CAREC corridors, it can have access to the central Asian markets. India could not rid itself of the burden of history as it remained under Muslim rule for centuries. The time has come the nations should look into the future instead of the past and resolve all the thorny issues by negotiations and peaceful means.

The development of regional infrastructure is in the beneSit of all countries and it is good omen Pakistan has the standing offer to all the regional countries, including India to become part of the programme.

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FBR issues security alert to all field formations of IRS & PCS ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue has issued a security alert and instructions to all chief commissioners, chief collectors, collectors and director generals IRS and customs. According to Secretary Security and Management FBR Saleem Ur Rehman that in view of current sensitive security situation of the country, Chairman FBR Tariq Mehmood Pasha has directed that all field formations of IRS (Inland Revenue Services) and PCS (Pakistan Custom Services) shall immediately review the security arrangements and take fool proof security steps to ensure security of the offices and transit accommodations and personnel.

In this regard instruction of FBR must be followed. The numbers of security personnel at all entry and exit points of office premises may be increased and strict checking on all points be ensured.

Rice worth $223.937 million exported in two-months

Thursday October 5, 2017

National

customs Tribunal adjourns hearing of reference filed by m/s kohinoor Trader

KARACHI

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ice worth US$ 223.937 million has been exported during the first two months of current financial year. During the period from July-August, 2017 rice exports from the country grew by 40.36 percent as compared the exports of the same period of last year, according the data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. In last two months around 428,993 metric tons of rice worth US$ 223.937 million exported as compared the exports of 380,861 metric tons valuing US$ 159.543 million, it added. Meanwhile, the exports of basmati rice grew by 10.35 percent and about 59,433 metric tons of basmati rice worth US$

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62.741 million exported as compared the exports of 59,192 metric tons valuing US$ 56.857 million of same period last year. The exports of rice other then basmati also witnessed an increase of 58.98 percent, around 369.580 metric tons of rice costing US$ 161.198 million exported as compared to the exports of 251,669 metric tons worth US$ 102.888 million of last year. On month on month basis, rice exports from the country grew by 53 percent in August, 2017 as compared the same month of last year, the data reveled. About 227,998 metric tons of rice worth US$ 116.041 million exported in August as compared the exports of 146,769 metric tons valuing US$ 75.569 million of same period last year. Meanwhile, basmati rice worth US$ 86.290 million exported in last month, which grew by 2.15 percent as compared the same months of last year.

ISLAMABAD

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nAEEm uLLAh TARIQ www.customsbulletin.com

ustoms Appellate Tribunal dated in ofSice hearing on recently Siled customs reference Siled by M/s Kohinoor Trader.

Customs Appellate Tribunal’s bench comprising of Members Tribunal, Syed Muhammad Anwar and Muhammad Nasir Khan heard the case being contested against Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation, Islamabad. The appellant had Siled the cases challenging departmental decision pertaining to the seizure of imported goods.

Earlier the bench had disposed of a case Siled by the same appellant. The bench had also heard another customs matter Siled by M/s Five Star Trading. Hearing on this matter was adjourned for further arguments.

Counsels from M/s Kohinoor Traders, M/s Five Star Trading appeared before the bench and demanded time from the bench for Sinalizing preparations for the case.

M/s Kohinoor Traders, M/s Five Star Trading had Siled cases against

Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation, Islamabad.

Meanwhile, Member, Ziauddin Wazir of Customs Appellate Tribunal directed parties to conclude arguments in couple of customs matters and dated in ofSice hearing.

The tribunal was hearing cases involving Collectorate of Customs and Directorate General of Intelli-

gence and Investigation, Islamabad. Ziaudding Wazir was hearing cases filed by M/s Chief Autos and M/s Fazal Razaq.

In the recent week the Ziauddin Wazir had heard a number of cases along with Justice (r) Malik Manzoor Hussain. The bench had heard M/s National Highway Authority’s case which had challenged a deci-

sion announced by MCC’s collector customs before the tribunal. The bench had reserved decisions on M/s Waseem Autos and M/s Nisar Traders cases.

M/s Waseem Autos and M/s Nisar Traders had Siled cases against Collectorate of Customs and Directorate General of Intelligence and Investigation, Islamabad.

Ihc relists customs reference challenging verdict ISLAMABAD

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slamabad High Court division bench comprising Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Miangul Hassan relisted a customs reference for hearing.

IHC bench issued directives in this regard while hearing a case against Customs Appellate Tribunal.

M Zubair, the appellant had challenged tribunal’s decision before the bench. Furthermore, IHC single bench comprising Justice Athar Minallah dated in ofSice hearing on M/s Pakistan Mobiles Communication Limited’s case. The appellant had Siled the reference challenging a show cause notice issued by the Large Taxpayers Unit, Islamabad.

The appellant had challenged the act of recovery of said amount by

commissioner Inland Revenue of Large Taxpayer’s Unit, Islamabad.

ATIR was also made respondent in the case as the tribunal had sustained departmental decision regarding issuance of show cause notice and demand of recovery of outstanding tax amount in head of federal excise duty.

M/s Pakistan Mobiles Communication Limited had prayed the court that FBR ofSice had issued a recovery notice to the company which did not hold lawful grounds.

The appellant had prayed the court to declare the act as illegal and without any lawful authority and an interim stay may be granted against recovery proceedings.

M/s Pakistan Mobiles Communication Limited submitted before the court that the impugned order was issued under malaSide intentions and had no legal standing or au-

thority and the court may decide on relief which it deemed appropriate in this regard. It also stated that due legal course was not followed by the department in issuing the order.

M/s Pakistan Mobiles Communi-

cation Limited had also mentioned that departmental obligations were not met amid processing the notice of recovery demand while later the adjudication did not address grievances of the appellant.

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Private Secretary Javaid to retire on Nov 5 Thursday October 5, 2017

National fBR issues corrigendum regarding officer’s designation

ISLAMABAD: Javaid Hussain Bangash, a BS-17 officer, is going to retire from the government service on attaining the age of superannuation.

Javaid, presently posted as Private Secretary at Directorate General of Internal Audit (IR) Islamabad, will stand retired from the government service with effect from November 5, 2017.

Taimur Aman made Lahore DgR-IR Additional Director

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he Federal Board of Revenue has issued a corrigendum regarding the designation of Muhammad Pervez Khan, an Inland Revenue Service officer of BS-16. In partial modification of Board’s Notification No. 2628-IR-I/2017, dated 20.09.2017, the name and designation of officer at Sr. No. 88 may be read as Muhammad Pervez Khan (IRO/BS-16) instead of Pervaiz Ahmed (IRAO/BS-17).

Meanwhile, The Federal Board of Revenue has expressed deep regret the sad demise of Nooran Qayyum, Assistant Commissioner-IR, RTO, Peshawar. The officer was born on February 4, 1959 and joined government service on July 20, 1983. The FBR appreciated the dedicated services rendered by the deceased officer. In expressing its sense of grief at his death, the Board conveyed its commiseration to the members of the bereaved family, praying.

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Ac-IR granted performance allowance bdur Rehman, an Inland Revenue Service officer of BS-17, selected through the process of internal job posting (IJP), has been granted performance allowance. The officer, presently posted as Assistant Commissioner-IR, Regional Tax Office, Rawalpindi, was granted performance allowance with effect from September 20, 2017. The grant of performance allowance will be governed through the terms and conditions laid down vide Circular No. 6(96)S(BIC)/2013-14 dated 06.03.2015 and will be discontinued in case prescribed terms and conditions are not fulfilled within one month from the date of issuance of this notification. –CB Report

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aimur Aman, a BS-18 ofSicer of Inland Revenue Service, has been transferred and posted as Additional Director, (OPS) Directorate General of Training & Research (Inland Revenue), Lahore.

The ofSicer, presently posted as Additional Commissioner (OPS), Regional Tax OfSice, Gujranwala, was posted as Additional Director, (OPS) Directorate General of Training & Research (Inland Revenue), Lahore (as teaching faculty), with immediate effect and until further orders.

He was asked to relinquish/assume charge, using online HRMS facility made available at all FBR major Sield ofSices or by using IJP login.

Meanwhile, Kashif Manzoor

Malik, a BS-18 officer of Inland Revenue Service, has assumed the charge as Additional Commissioner-IR (OPS). The officer, in pursuance of Board’s Notification

No. 2628-IR-I/2017 dated 20.09.2017, relinquished the charge of the post of Additional Commissioner-IR (OPS), Regional Tax Office, Islamabad with effect

from September 22 and took the charge of the post of Additional Commissioner-IR (OPS) at Large Taxpayers Unit, Islamabad on the same date.

Dry port peshawar displays outstanding performance by collecting Rs1701.54m T

PESHAWAR

TARIQ DERYA

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he Customs Dry Port Peshawar received Rs1701.54million of all duties and taxes during the 1st-Quarter (July to September) Financial Year (FY) 2017-18.

According to details given by Gul Rehman Marwat, Collector Model Customs Collectorate (MCC) Peshawar, that, during above said period, the Peshawar Dry Port showed outstanding performance. During the Sirst three months of FY17-18, the dry port earned Rs591.68million as Customs Duty (CD) whereas it did Rs9.12million of miscellaneous taxes and surcharges.

The dry port generated Rs154.67million as Redemption Duty (RD) on Imports while it did Rs628.55million of Sales Tax (ST)

and the Dry Port Peshawar got Rs96.77million as ST VM on Imports of Palm oil during the 1st-Q FY17-18. He said that, during above said period, the dry port obtained Rs276.29million of Additional In-

come Tax (AIT) whereas the dry port fetched Rs16.46million as Federal Excise Duty (FED) on Imports during the 1st-Q of FY17-18.

The Collectorate of the MCC Peshawar has geared up its efforts to

perform better during the upcoming 2nd quarter of FY17-18. He is optimistic that the dry port will show much better performance during the next quarter (October to December) FY17-18.

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Farhat Ali assumes charge as Addl Collector after promotion ISLAMABAD: Farhat Ali, a Pakistan Customs Service officer, has assumed the charge as Additional Collector on her promotion to BS-19.

The officer, on her promotion vide Board’s Notification No.2204-C-II/2017 dated 17.08.2017 and No. 2242-C-I/2017 dated 18.08.2017, relinquished the charge of the post of Deputy Collector (BS-18), Collectorate of Customs (Adjudication), Faisalabad on August 18, 2017 and assumed the charge of the post of Additional Collector (BS-19), Collectorate of Customs (Adjudication), Lahore on August 21.

ADB approves $800m to improve connectivity, trade in pakistan ISLAMABAD

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sian Development Bank’s (ADB) Board of Directors has approved a $800 million multitranche financing facility (MFF) to help enhance regional connectivity and trade in the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) corridors in Pakistan. The investment programme will expand Pakistan’s regional connectivity links while helping to improve road traffic efficiency, according to a statement issued by the bank here on Tuesday. Road networks in Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be rehabilitated and upgraded with the MFF’s first tranche, worth $180 million in 2017. The second and third tranches, worth $260 million and $360 million, respectively, are expected to be approved in 2019 and

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2021. “Pakistan’s unique geographic location-at the crossroads of Central Asia, the People’s Republic of China, and South Asia-provides a unique potential and opportunity for the country to become a regional transport and trade hub,” said Dong-Soo Pyo, ADB’s Director, Transport and Communications Division, Central and West Asia Department. “The investment programme will help the government of Pakistan to realize this potential, improving trade and connectivity in the CAREC corridors with the long-term goal of achieving inclusive growth and sustainable development in mind.” Pakistan’s trade has been centered on sea traffic while transit trade through the country remains limited as poor and costly transport and cross-border infrastructure and services hinder the realization of this untapped potential. Upgrading the country’s current 263,000 kilometers (km) of road while ensuring transport safety will be critical to the country’s export competitiveness as well as overall economic growth.

National

m/s nutshall Traders moves Shc seeking exemption in duty & taxes on tiles

customs Tribunal rejects appeal in smuggled cloths case LAHORE

SAJID nAwAZ

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ustoms Appellate Tribunal has dismissed the case against Baram Khan and others versus Collectorate of Customs Adjudication Lahore and others. According to the details, on information the Superintendent of Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation (I&I)-FBR Lahore was intercepted a vehicle and recovered huge quantity of smuggled cloths. During the inspection of smuggled goods driver failed to produce any legal document regarding lawful import and same were seized under Customs Act 1969. FIR also lodged against the owner of smuggled goods. After show cause notice, adjudication authority heard the case and passed Order-in-Original (ONO) against the owner of goods who aggrieved from the order and challenged the order before the Customs Appellate Tribunal. Before the appellant argued that that Order-in-Original passed in mechanical fashion and against the fact of case and order in original liable to set aside. On the other side, respondent denied all allegations by the appellant.

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KARACHI

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he Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the customs authorities and deputy attorney general on a constitutional petition Siled by M/s Nutshall Traders, seeking exemption in duty and taxes on a consignment of tiles imported from Sri Lanka.

While the hearing of the petition, a two-member bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Umer Sial, also directed them to Sile their respective para wise comments on the next date of hearing.

The court adjourned the matter for September 28, 2017.

Earlier, counsel for the petitioner stated that petitioner imported a consignment of tiles from Sri Lanka which arrived at Karachi Port. It Siled goods declaration according to the law and sought exemption from duty and taxes under SRO 482/2009 dated 13/06/2009 under PTA like SAFTA, which is still in Sield on the imported consignment from Sri Lanka under the list of SAARC countries.

Citing Secretary Revenue Division, Collector of Customs Ap-

Thursday October 5, 2017

praisement East, Ministry of Commerce and other as respondents, petitioner court may declare that act of the respondents is illegal, mala fide and arbitrary.

Meanwhile, Sindh High Court’s Customs appellate bench issued notice to the ofSicials of Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigations in a petition challenging conSiscation of a Toyota X series car. The bench, comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Omar Sial, issued notice to the Customs ofSicials for Oct 4. Fazal Subhan, who deals in

US Immigration cases and a psychologist, was going to Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Centre (JPMC) on Sept 11, 2017 with his wife Dr Fareeda, Gynaecologist who was called to attend an emergency case when DIT ofSicials intercepted the vehicle.

The owners presented all documents including purchase papers, import documents, ABL Loan documents, on Line veriSication from Motor Vehicle Registration but they forcible took away the vehicle, submitted counsel Ms Dil Khurram Shaheen advocate.

motorcycle production surges 34.81% in two months

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ISLAMABAD

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he motorcycles production in the country witnessed a sharp increase of 34.81 per cent during Sirst two months (July-August) of the year 2017-18 as compared to same period of last year.

The motorbikes production jumped to 324,824 units in July-August (2017-18) from the production of 240,937 units in same period of last year, according to latest data released by Pakistan Automotive Manufacturing Association (PAMA).

The breakup Sigures show that production of Honda motor bikes

increased by 36.9 during the corresponding period as it went up from 136,890 units in July-August (201617) to 187,410 units in same period of current year.

Similarly, the production of Yamaha two wheelers, also witnessed an increase of 130 per cent as it increased from 1334 units in Sirst two months of Siscal year 201617 to 3,068 units this year.

Suzuki manufactured 3,488 twowheelers during the period under review while during same period of last year, 3,137 units were produced. The production of United Auto motorcycles also increased from 49,464 units to 66,574 units

this year, thus showing an increase of 34.6 per cent during the corresponding year.

Road Prince motorcycles also increased its production during the period under review as its production went up from 34,325 units in Sirst two months of Siscal year 201617 to 43,395 units in same period of current Siscal year thus showing an increase of 24.4 per cent.

In addition, production of Ravi motorcycles increased by 64 per cent as 5,122 units were manufactured during the period under review while during same period of last year 3,106 motorcycles were manufactured. The manufacturing of Hero bikes jumped

from only 318 units in July-August (2016-17) to 1,923 units in same period of current year, thus showing a surge of 504 per cent. Among threewheelers, Sohrab manufactured 940 units during July-August (2017-18) as compared to the production of 1,002 units in same period of last year. Likewise, Qinqqi three-wheelers also witnessed a decrease of 31 per cent as it declined to 3,418 units in Sirst two months of 2017-18 from 4,995 units in same period of previous year. Sazgar three-wheelers however, witness a slight increase of 3.25 per cent as its production went up from 3,717 units in July-August (2016-17) to 3,838 units this year.

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Italy boosts growth forecasts

World Customs

ROME: Italy’s Treasury announced a brighter outlook, raising its forecast for economic growth this year and next. It also announced plans to cut the budget deficit by less than previously promised. The brighter outlook from the Treasury’s Economic and Financial Document (DEF) may help the ruling Democratic Party ahead of national elections early next year if voters notice an improvement in living standards, reported the Reuters news agency. More specifically, the treasury said gross domestic product (GDP) will rise by 1.5% this year, increasing its previous projection of 1.1% made in April to reflect better than expected data in the first two quarters and buoyant business sentiment.

Thursday October 5, 2017

uS customs officers seizes 460 pounds of marijuana

Italy bank cleanup shifts to $150b in doubtful loans ROME

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S Customs and Border Protection ofSicers seized more than 400 pounds of marijuana in Sive separate cases Wednesday at various El Paso ports of entry, ofSicials said. The Sive separate cases resulted in ofSicers seizing 460 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $368,000, U.S. Customs and Border Protection ofSicials said. “The smuggling threat is consistent. Vigilant CBP ofSicers are stepping up every day to stop drug loads,” Beverly Good, CBP El Paso port director, said in a statement. “The work we perform plays an important role in keeping our nation safe from all threats.”

The largest case involved a 56year-old Mexican citizen attempting to smuggle multiple drug-Silled bundles in a vehicle across the Bridge of

Vietnam-Australia trade ties thriving ietnam and Australia have opportunities to advance their economic and trade ties, said Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan. At a reception for Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Craig Chittick in HCM City Nhan said the Vietnamese metropolis has good ties with many Australian localities, voicing his hope that relations will continue to thrive. For his part, the ambassador highlighted the rapid development of economic relations between Vietnam and Australia, with two-way trade increasing sharply annually and more flights launched to connect the two countries. Also, bilateral education collaboration is also thriving, he said, noting that tens of thousands of Vietnamese are studying in Australia. Australia is the 19th largest investor in Vietnam with 407 projects worth 1.85 billion USD and is also an important market of Vietnamese investors who are running 36 projects with total capital of nearly 200 million USD in the country. –CB Report

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the Americas, ofSicials said. The man, whose name was not released, attempted to cross the port of entry at about 8:30 p.m. Wednesday in a 2005 Chrystal Town and Country van, ofSicials said. OfSicers noticed several issues with the vehicle and sent it for a secondary inspection,

ofSicials said. Multiple bundles Silled with drugs allegedly were found in the quarter panels of the van, ofSicials said. The driver was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents.

He was arrested in connection with the failed smuggling attempt.

uk gAS-prices down on lower exports, dip in norwegian flows

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ritish wholesale gas prices fell morning due to less exports to Europe and slightly lower Norwegian Slows. Within-day gas price was down by 1.53 pence to 45.50 pence/therm at 0723 GMT. The October contract was 0.50 pence lower at 46.00 p/therm. Exports through the InterconnectorUK pipeline to continental Europe have dropped to 26 million cubic metres (mcm) from 41 mcm/day on Thursday. Flows from

Norway are slightly lower at 87 mcm/day, compared to 90 mcm on Thursday. Gas-for-power demand has also declined to 53 mcm/day from 59 mcm the previous day. Demand is forecast at around 200 mcm and Slows at nearly 209 mcm/day, leaving the system 9 mcm over-supplied, National Grid data shows. Centrica Storage Limited’s (CSL) Rough gas storage site could start withdrawals of its remaining operational stocks. –CB Report

fter tackling billions of dollars in bad loans, Italian banks are moving on to a somewhat less risky but possibly trickier category of distressed debt as they seek to clean up their balance sheets. “Unlikely-to-pay loans are the next challenge for banks,” said Riccardo Serrini, chief executive ofSicer of the asset manager Prelios Credit Servicing. “They are usually corporate loans, with some sort of real estate collateral.” Banks must tread carefully so as not to hinder Italy’s economic recovery, because the loans usually involve companies that are still productive, he said on the sidelines of Banca ISis SpA’s annual conference in Venice on Friday.

Italy’s logjam of non-performing loans continues to weigh on the euro area’s third-largest economy

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nine years after the Sinancial crisis.

The government has spent billions of euros in recent years to recapitalize some banks and wind down others, while lenders raised almost 30 billion euros ($36 billion) from shareholders to shore up their Sinances. So far the industry has focused on dealing with bad loans, deSined by the Bank of Italy as exposure to debtors who are insolvent or just about. Now that much of this credit has been ofSloaded, attention is shifting to loans involving borrowers that are still viable but unlikely to meet their obligations.

As with bad loans, the danger is that the market may not be willing to pay the book price, forcing lenders to recognize still more losses. “There may be a gap of around 10 billion euros,” said Giovanni Bossi, CEO of Banca ISis, a Sirm that purchases and manages sour debt. “These loans reSlect problems of Italian companies that in most cases can be kept aSloat and restructured, so they have to be managed carefully, case by case.”

upmc expands in Italy PMC is expanding again, this time in Italy. The health giant announced Thursday it invested in the 75-bed Salvator Mundi International Hospital in Rome with a 50 percent stake. “Given UPMC’s longstanding and successful operations in Italy, we are excited about partnering with RIHM to bring more high-quality services to patients who currently are underserved by both private and public health care providers,” Charles Bogosta, president of UPMC International, said in a statement. “Our strategic investment … ensures that this partnership will promote our mission of giving patients the best

possible care close to home.” UPMC did not disclose Sinancial terms. The partnership is expected to expand advanced cancer services and other specialized treatments. The Rome hospital draws about 2,400 admissions and performs about 3,000 surgeries and procedures annually. “Backed by the deep clinical, operational and Sinancial resources of UPMC, we look forward to offering our patients the most advanced medical and surgical oncology services, as well as highly specialized treatments in neurosurgery, interventional radiology and minimally invasive thoracic surgery,” said. –CB Report

canada’s annual inflation rate rose to 1.4%

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OTTAWA

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he country’s annual inSlation rate continued to accelerate last month with a boost from higher costs for gasoline, hotels and airline tickets. The new inSlation reading Friday of 1.4 per cent brought the data point closer to the Bank of Canada’s

ideal target of two per cent and supported the bank’s predictions that recent softness was mostly temporary.

The inSlation number crept up from 1.2 per cent in July and a two-year low of just one per cent in June, Statistics Canada said. Motivated by powerful economic growth in the Sirst half of 2017, the inSlation-targeting bank has raised its benchmark interest rate twice since July and many analysts ex-

pect it to continue along its hiking path over the next year. The report Friday also showed two of the central bank’s three preferred measures of underlying inSlation, that seek to look through the noise of more-volatile items like gasoline, also increased in August. But while many economists predicted the inSlation numbers were unlikely to change the Bank of Canada’s thinking when it comes to its

next rate hike, some thought the latest retail-trade data, also released Friday, could encourage the bank to hold off a little longer. Statistics Canada said Friday that retail trade in July rose 0.4 per cent compared with the previous month. Bank of Montreal senior economist Sal Guatieri said the retail sales data suggests the economy is starting to show signs of slowing after its torrid pace in the Sirst half of 2017.

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Six ships take berth at port Qasim KARACHI: Six ship-C.V Maipo, M.V Going Yin-1, M.V MG Earth, M.T Lion-M, M.T Epic Sardinle and M.T Coroan – carrying containers, 40,139 tonnes coal, 66,000 tonnes soya been, 70,420 tonnes furnace oil, 6,554 tonnes LPG and 30,550 tonnes palm oil were allotted berths at Qasim International Container Terminal Mult-Purpose Terminal, Grain & Fertilizer Terminal, FOTCO Oil Terminal and Liquid Cargo Terminal on Thursday.

Meanvhile five more ships, C.V CMA CGM Amazon, M.T Thor Gas, M.T IVY Galaxy, M.T Carlus Magnus and M.V Athos with containers, LPG, palm oil and steel col also arrived at outer anchorage of Port Qasim during last 24 hours.

port of Savannah bounces back to welcome 14,000TEu John Adams fter having to close for five days during Hurricane Matthew due primarily to damage to navigational aids the Georgia Ports Authority bounced back from Hurricane Irma almost immediately, bringing in its first ship Tuesday, less than 24 hours after the storm passed. On Wednesday, the port worked eight ships, including the CMA CGM John Adams, a 14,000-plus TEU sister ship to the Theodore Roosevelt, the largest ship ever to call on the U.S. East Coast. The Roosevelt came in to Garden City Terminal earlier this month. “We were incredibly fortunate with Irma in that water came right up to the docks but didn’t overflow,” GPA executive director Griff Lynch said. “And the work we did on the front end of the storm really paid off – we didn’t have a single container blown over.” The next few days are ex-

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pected to be especially busy as ships that couldn’t come into port last weekend join regularly scheduled vessels in the queue. This weekend alone will be a shipwatchers’ delight, with 14 vessels due in Saturday and 12 on Sunday. Some 100 miles to our south, the Coast Guard reopened the Port of Brunswick Wednesday afternoon, urging mariners to transit with caution due to the possibility that aids to navigation discrepancies or other hazards may still exist. GPA spokesman Robert Morris said Thursday the port was fully operational, with three car carriers working on Colonel’s Island. A contract solicitation for an environmental mitigation piece of the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on July 6 was rescinded Aug. –CB Report

Ports & Shipping

St. Lawrence ports continue to press for on whale issue WASHINGTON

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ruise the Saint Lawrence continues to urge the Canadian government to conduct an in-depth analysis of the right whale situation in the Gulf so a strategy can be implemented far ahead of the 2018 cruise season. The association, consisting of nine member ports, underscored its support for the 10-knot speed cap instituted in mid-August to protect the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale. However, this restriction— across a vast zone that stretches from Québec’s north shore to just north of Prince Edward Island—has caused considerable impact on the cruise industry across the greater Canada/New England region. To date, 16 cancellations have been conSirmed for three St. Lawrence ports. The most seriously impacted is Gaspé. Other ports outside the St. Lawrence, such as Charlottetown, PEI, have been affected, too. Cruise

the Saint Lawrence is calling for an in-depth analysis of the measure imposed by Transport Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada at the end of this season in order to be ready to implement an intervention strategy for 2018 within a reasonable timeframe. ‘Most unfortunately, many cruise lines have been obligated to alter their itineraries to honor their scheduled date of arrival at final destination. They are the first to regret being forced to cut short or delete altogether

certain calls and would appreciate more detailed information to be able to organize their itineraries in the best interests of guests and ports of call in the years ahead,’ said Tony Boemi, president of Cruise the Saint Lawrence.

That is why the association is taking an active part in ongoing discussions with government authorities and industry partners to Sind solutions that reconcile tourism industry economic interests with speciesspeciSic protection measures.

Thursday October 5, 2017

ports essential to wales’ economy, says minister ALES’ ports, including Newport’s, are key to the country’s economy, the Welsh Government’s economy and infrastructure secretary Ken Skates has said. Control over ports is to be devolved to Wales from next year. And, speaking at an event organised by the Welsh Ports Group, Mr Skates said: “Ports in Wales are uniquely placed to be a driving force for economic wealth by supporting economic growth and jobs throughout Wales, as well as bringing added value to local communities.” He added: “Devolution will bring exciting opportunities for us to enhance our working relationships with the sector and support the key role it has to play in achieving a prosperous, secure united and connected Wales. “Collaborative working with the ports sector and businesses throughout Wales on the unique risks and opportunities Brexit represents is crucially important to to ensure solutions which maximise the economic contribution ports make to our communities.” –CB Report

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port of gothenburg biggest in Scandinavia WASHINGTON

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uring the first quarter of the year, new car exports and imports passing through the Port of Gothenburg rose by 12 per cent compared with the first quarter of 2016. The Port of Gothenburg became the number one vehicle handling port in Scandinavia, due largely to the rise in imports.

The number of cars exported and imported through the Port of Gothenburg has grown steadily since 2012 and the trend appears to be holding. According to new figures released by the Swedish government agency Transport Analysis and the industry and employers’ organisation Ports of Sweden, 67,682 cars passed through the Port of Gothenburg during the first quarter of the year. This rep-

resents an increase of 12 per cent on the first quarter of 2016. The increase can be attributed largely to the 30 per cent upturn in imports. Imports account for 40 per cent of the cars handled at the port and are mainly from Renault and Nissan, but also include Chevrolet, Ford and Opel. The positive trend was underpinned even further during the year by the link-up between the terminal operator, Logent Ports and Terminals, and car producers Mazda and Tesla. “The upsurge in the sale of new cars in Sweden has continued and this is reflected very clearly in our import figures. Our terminal operators, Gothenburg RoRo Terminal and Logent Ports and Terminals, are doing a first-rate job of sourcing new volumes and the future for imports is looking bright,” said Claes Sundmark, Vice President, Container, Ro-Ro and Rail at

Gothenburg Port Authority.

On the export side, it is Volvo that accounts for the majority of the volumes. During the first quarter, the port shipped three per cent more new cars, thanks to the growth in sales of Volvo’s Gothenburg-produced models from what was already a record-breaking level. “I’m very pleased to see that their model range is enjoying continued success. Volvo has new models in the pipeline at the Torslanda Plant, which they are very optimistic about, and there are strong indications that car exports will increase at an even higher rate in the future,” said Claes Sundmark. Meanwhile, WALES’ ports, including Newport’s, are key to the country’s economy, the Welsh Government’s economy and infrastructure secretary Ken Skates has said. Control over ports is to be devolved to Wales from next year.

And, speaking at an event organised by the Welsh Ports Group, Mr Skates said: “Ports in Wales are uniquely placed to be a driving force for economic wealth by supporting economic growth and jobs throughout Wales, as well as bringing added value to local communities.” He added: “Devolution will bring exciting opportunities for us to enhance our working relationships with the sector and support the key role it has to play in achieving a prosperous, secure united and connected Wales. “Collaborative working with the ports sector and businesses throughout Wales on the unique risks and opportunities Brexit represents is crucially important to to ensure solutions which maximise the economic contribution ports make to our communities.” Wales’ ports handle 55 million tonnes of cargo every year.

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Excise and Taxation dept achieves 28 % recovery target FAISALABAD: Excise and Taxation department (E&T) has achieved 28 percent recovery target during first three months of current fiscal year. The aggregate recovery target was fixed at Rs 3.43 billion, of which more than Rs 960.6 million has been recovered.

According to department sources, E&T teams recovered property tax more than Rs 600 million in three months out of the total target set at Rs 1.57 billion.

More than Rs 290 million was collected by motor branch, Rs 26 million under the head of professional tax, Rs 30 million recreational tax, Rs 27.6 million excise duty, Rs 2.5 million cotton fees and tax Rs 7.3 million was collected under the head of luxury residences.

Thursday October 5, 2017

Business

pak, Vietnam to promote economic ties ISLAMABAD

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akistan and Vietnam agreed to initiate steps to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation in Agriculture, Information Technology, Education, Health, Investment, Banking and Industrial Sectors.

The consensus for promoting trade and economic relations was developed during the 4th Session of Pakistan-Vietnam Joint Ministerial Commission (JM) which was held here. Secretary Economic Affairs Division, Arif Ahmed Khan led the Pakistani delegation while Vice Minister of Industry and Trade, Socialist Re-

4 involved in illegal business arrested FAISALABAD

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public of Vietnam, Cao Quoc Hung was leading the Vietnamese delegation in talks. Two sides developed consensus for frequent interaction of trade bodies and exhibitions in order to enhance the volume of bi-

cabinet approves 6pc reduction in ST on import of finished textile, leather articles

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team of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) here on Wednesday arrrested four persons who were involved in illegal business of currency exchange/hundi hawala. According to an FIA spokesman, the team conducted raid at MNM Tehsil office road Siddiqi plaza Gojra and recovered Rs 110,000, three laptops, cheque books, ledgers,receipts and other documents regarding hundi hawala from the possession of Nadeem Ahmad Bandhesha, Khalid Javed, Zahid Hussain and Imdad Hussain.

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lateral trade in coming years.

The Vietnamese government reiterated its un-Slinched support for Pakistan’s full dialogue partnership with ASEAN which would usher in new vistas of cooperation in the

Sields of trade and investment between the two countries. Pakistani proposed Vietnamese side to move forward on Preferential Trade Agreement during forthcoming meeting of Joint Trade Committee (JTC). Both sides showed their resolve for enhanced cooperation in Agriculture, Science and Technology, and Information Technology sectors through frequent interaction of Joint Working Groups (JWGs) that will yield productive results. The bilateral investment and establishment of banking channels would be catalyst in realizing these objectives. Both sides also decided to continue cooperation with each other in Health, Education and Industrial sectors. Vietnamese side was offered to invest in Information Technology, food processing and automobile sectors in Pakistan.

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ISLAMABAD

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he federal cabinet has approved reduction in sales tax to six percent from 17 percent on ready to use imported Sinished articles of textile and leather.

The meeting of the federal cabinet was held in Prime Minister’s OfSice with Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in chair.

The Cabinet approved amendment in SRO 1125(I)/2011 dated December 31, 2011 allowing re-

duction in rate of sales tax from 17 percent to 6 percent on ready to use imported finished articles of textile and leather, in line with WTO regulations. The cabinet approved proposal of Revenue Division to amend the Convention of the Avoidance of Double Taxation between Pakistan and Korea.

Amendment to the existing Convention between Pakistan and Qatar for the avoidance of double taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income for Updation of Article on Exchange of Information was ap-

proved by the Cabinet.

Furthermore, the Cabinet approved amending the existing Convention between Pakistan and Canada for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income for Updation of Article on Exchange of Information.

Amendment in Import Policy Order with regard to import of beef was approved. In order to clarify the said commodity in Import Policy Order, the word MBM would be incorporated after the word “meat and bone meal” in the said Policy Order.

Tea imports grew by 2.36 % in two-moth MULTAN

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ea worth US$ 96.419 million was imported into the country during first two-moth of current financial year as compared the imports of the corresponding period of last year. Tea import into the country during the from July-August, 201718 increased by 2.36 percent as compared the imports of the same period of last year. According the data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, tea import into the country was recorded at 34,126 metric tons valuing US$ 94.419 million as compared the imports of 39,115 metric tons worth of US$ 94.194 million of the same period last year. Meanwhile, food group imports into the country during first two months of current financial year increased by 27.18 percent as compared the imports of the corresponding period of last year. The food group imports into the country during the period from July-August 2017 was recorded at US$ 1.123 billion as against the import of US$ 883.156 million of same period last year, according the data of Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Country consumed dry fruits and nuts worth US$ 33.836 million in first two months of current financial year as compared the consumption of US$ 24.142 million of same period last year.

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SSgcL to spend over Rs2b on gasification of 137 villages ISLAMABAD

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ui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL) will spend around Rs 2.246 billion on gasiSication of 137 villages of Sindh and Balochistan provinces during the current Siscal year.

“Under the PM’s Global Sustainable Development Goals Programme, SSGCL is working to lay around 490

kilometers gas pipelines to gasify 119 villages in Sindh and 18 villages in Balochistan by laying 77 kilometer network lines,” ofSicial sources said.

The company would spend Rs 1616.243 million in 119 villages of Sindh and Rs 630.043 in 18 villages of Balochistan for the purpose, they said adding that detailed engineering surveys were carried out in some localities while in some villages it had requested for approval of additional funds. “All these projects are being

executed on recommendations of Parliamentarians and notables of the areas for provision of gas,” the sources said. Answering a question, they said the two state companies – SNGPL and SSGCL – had laid around 6,129 kilometer transmission network in their operational areas during the last Siscal year. “The companies laid 814 kilometer gas transmission network, 4,153 kilometer distribution and 1,162 kilometer service lines and connected 104 vil-

lages and town to gas network,” they added. The sources said the gas companies have provided 360,465 domestic, 339 commercial and 20 industrial connections across the country during the last year. Besides, the companies invested Rs 17,925 million on transmission projects, Rs 11,183 million on distribution projects and Rs 14,925 million on other projects bringing total investment to about Rs 44,033 million.Replying to a question, the sources said Pakistan

has an extensive gas network of over 12,202 km transmission 119,736 km distribution and 32,823 services gas pipelines to cater the requirement of more than 8.4 million consumers across the country by supplying about 4 billion cubic feet per day natural gas. To another question, they said the companies would set up over 60 LiqueSied Petroleum Gas (LPG)-air mix plants in selected areas where natural gas supply does not exist.

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Iran exports dates to nearly 50 countries TEHRAN: The Iranian customs authorities have announced the volume of the major agricultural products exported by the country during the first five months of the current Iranian year. According to the figures announced by the Customs Office, Iran has exported 25,113 tonnes of fresh or dried dates worth over $31 million to nearly 50 countries. The Khabar Online news agency said in a Farsi report that Yugoslavia, Pakistan, Japan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Albania, Armenia, Australia, Afghanistan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Indonesia, USA, Italy, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Thailand, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Denmark, Syria, Singapore, Sweden, Serbia, Iraq, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Canada, Lebanon, Poland, Lithuania, Malaysia, Norway, the Netherlands, India, China, Austria, Ethiopia, Armenia, Korea, Romania, Qatar, Hong Kong, and New Zealand are the countries which have recently imported dates from Iran.

hccI to assist government in resolving traffic issues HYDERABAD

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indh Government has included the representatives of Hyderabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HCCI) in the divisional level board which has been formed to resolve the traffic related issues of Hyderabad. This was informed by the Regional Director Sindh Building Control Authority Hyderabad Nadeem Khan while talking to builders, developers, traders and industrialists here at HCCI Secretariat on Wednesday. He said that the board will make implementable plans in consultation with the stakeholders to ensure smooth follow of traffic and sufficient space for parking so that the people could take sigh of relief from traffic jam.

Talking about the responsibilities of Sindh Building Control Authority,

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Nadeem Khan said that the prime objective of SBCA was to regulate the construction plans and ensure the construction of buildings in accordance to laws and within the parameters of the set policy. The SBCA also discouraging the illegal constructions, he added. He informed that the approvals of the residential projects are being issued by SBCA after receiving no objection certificates from HESCO, WASA SSGCL. He called upon the construction companies to follow the set rules and regulations of SBCA while developing a residential projects and complete the same within time frame.

Nadeem Khan informed that SBCA management has decided to organize public awareness seminars on the policy formed by the government for residential projects. The HCCI should also extend its cooperation in this regard, he requested.

Thursday October 5, 2017

Chambers

IccI asks diplomats to cooperate in promoting fDI in pakistan ISLAMABAD

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he Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a dinner reception in honor of foreign diplomats which was well attended. Ambassadors, High Commissioners and diplomatic representatives of about 50 countries were present while some Additional Foreign Secretaries also graced the occasion.

Speaking at the occasion, Khalid Iqbal Malik, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that law and order situation has improved signiSicantly in Pakistan while our economy offered great potential for foreign investors in its various sectors including infrastructure development, energy, oil & gas, natural resources, construction and engineering sectors. He said the CPEC project has created many news avenues of business and investment in Pakistan and it was right time that foreign investors should explore Pakistan for JVs and investment. He said that foreign diplomats should play role in pro-

jecting investment potential of Pakistan in their respective countries that will help in attracting FDI in our country. He said that foreign diplomats should also cooperate in promoting a soft image of Pakistan in foreign world. Khalid Malik, Senior Vice President, ICCI welcomed the foreign diplomats and said that this year was best for ICCI in terms of good relations with diplomatic community as a large number of

diplomats visited Chamber to exchange views on matters of mutual interest and to explore possibilities of enhancing trade relations with Pakistan. He was optimistic that ICCI would further strengthen its relations with diplomatic community in coming times in order to promote Pakistan’s trade and exports.

Shah Jamal, Additional Foreign Secretary appreciated the initiative of ICCI for hosting dinner for diplo-

IccI slams power tariff hike by nEpRA ISLAMABAD

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he Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry has slammed the 48 paisa per unit hike in the average electricity tariff by National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) for ex-WAPDA distribution companies (Discos) for the year 2015-16 and termed it an unwise decision as it would further enhance the cost of doing business and hurt Pakistan’s exports.

Khalid Iqbal Malik, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry said that the power tariffs in Pakistan for industrial and commercial consumers were already highest in the region due to which our exports have become uncompetitive in the international market.

He said in this scenario, allowing Discos to recover Rs.24.34 billion from power consumers on account of the write-off of unrecovered amounts from chronic defaulters was totally unjustiSied.

He said that NEPRA has resorted to easy approach of passing on the burden of defaulters to the general consumers which was an illogical decision. He said NEPRA was making regular bill-payers to pay for those who have used the electricity, but were not paying for it. He said this practice would encourage further defaults and would create disappointment in regular bill payers.

He said the trend of write-offs would also reinforce the rampant inefSiciencies within the system and put an upfront burden on consumers. Khalid Iqbal Malik said that the business community had been demanding of the government since

long to focus on bringing down high energy cost as Pakistan was losing export markets to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Vietnam and other regional countries due to high power tariffs. But it was unfortunate that instead of bringing down electricity price, government was taking measures to further enhance it that would badly affect business and industrial activities causing further fall in country’s exports.

Khalid Malik, Senior Vice President, ICCI said that line losses and defaults in Islamabad Electric Supply Company were minimum as compared to other Discos and it was unjustiSied to make the consumers of IESCO to pay for the defaulters of other areas. He called upon the NEPRA to immediately withdraw 48 paisa increase in power tariff and urged that government should focus on cheap energy sources for producing affordable electricity.

mats and said that such events would contribute in improving relations between private sector and diplomatic community. H.E Tore Nedrebo, Ambassador of Norway speaking on behalf of the diplomatic community thanked ICCI for hosting dinner in honor of diplomats and assured that diplomatic community would cooperate in efforts aimed at promoting business and economic interests of Pakistan.

LccI, TEVTA to ensure skilled manpower to industry ahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to ensure provision of much-needed quality skilled manpower to the industry. LCCI President Abdul Basit and Chairman TEVTA Irfan Qaiser Sheikh inked the MoU on behalf of their respective organizations here at Lahore Chamber. They also inaugurated a display center for Ceramic Art there. LCCI Vice President Muhammad Nasir Hameed Khan, Irfan Iqbal Sheikh and Executive Committee Members were also present. The agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two organizations. –CB Report

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Tax recovery system computerised MARDAN: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mardan, Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh here on Wednesday said that tax recovery system has been computerised to ensure transparency and modernization in the system.

Addressing officials of Revenue Department at the office of Tehsildar Mardan, the DC said the computerisation of revenue system would help overcome burden on Patwari besides streamlining the system.He directed Patwaris and Tehsildars to perform their duties with devotion and spirit and address people’s problems swiftly.

Thursday, October 5, 2017

CUSTOMS BULLETIN

multan customs unearths tax evasion of Rs57.6 million against m/s pSo MULTAN ImRAn ALI

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he Customs Collectorate Multan has detected a tax evasion of Rs57.6million against M/s Pakistan State Oil Company. M/s Pakistan State Oil Company Ltd (PSO) Mahmood Kot, District Muzaffargarh, got cleared various consignments of High Speed Diesel (HSD) through Multan Customs Dry Port. The internal audit team of the customs uncovered the tax evasion of Rs57.63million on Sales Taxes of dutiable petroleum products (High Speed Diesel) of PARCO at the time of ex-bonding.

The Multan Customs observed during the audit that M/s Pakistan State Oil Company applied the rate of Sales Tax @16 % instead of correct applicable rate of Sales Tax @17% which resulted in the short realization of government revenue of Rs5.8million.

Sources told Customs Today that the audit teams found tax evasion that alleged M/s. Pakistan State Oil Company Ltd (PSO) has cleared three various ex-bonded consignmenst of High Speed Diesel from 1st, 2nd and 3rd of July of year 2013.

M/s Pakistan State Oil Company Mehmood Kot bonded warehouse received High Speed Diesel worth Rs1797.83million in July 2013 and they paid Sales Taxes of Rs270.882million for the clearance

of their HSD. During the course of audit they were found short by almost Rs57.67million in Sales Taxes. The internal audit team of the customs detected tax evasion of Rs57.67mil-

lion on Sales Taxes (High Speed Diesel) Petroleum Products of PSO at the time of ex-bonding.

The Customs Collectorate Multan has formed a contravention report under subsection (I) and 3(A) of

Customs Act-1969 Act Section 11 of the Sales Tax Act-1990 punishable under section 56(I) (14) of Customs Act-1969 and issued notice to M/s Pakistan State Oil Company under Section 33 (19) of Sales Act-1990.

Anf seizes 762 kg drugs in 15 counter narcotics raids; arrests 17 RAWALPINDI

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nti Narcotics Force (ANF) Pakistan has recovered 762 kg drugs amounting Rs 882 million in international market while arrested 17 drug offenders and impounded four vehicles in 15 counter narcotics raids conducted across the country.

According to ANF spokesman, the recovered drugs comprised

630 kg Hashish, 129 kg Opium, 2.1 kg Heroin, 1.5 kg Methamphetamine, 400 grams Amphetamine, 25,2000 Alprazolam tablets, 67,850 Diazapam tablets, 17500 Bipronorphine Injections, 31900 Valron injections, 76 bottles liquor and 300 tins of Beer.

ANF Quetta in an intelligence based operation carried out at District Qilla Abdullah seized 495 kg Hashish. In another intelligence based operation, ANF Quetta captured a Truck at Hoshab Road, Kech and recovered 100 kg Opium concealed in secret cavities of the truck. Yet in another operation,

ANF Quetta intercepted a pick-up at general area Turbat Panjgur Road, Panjgur. Search of the vehicle led to seizure of 20 kg Opium, 76 bottles of liquor and 300 tins of beer. In fourth operation, ANF Quetta in pursuance of information, intercepted a Toyota Jeep at general area near Kashti Chowk, Panjgur and recovered nine kg Opium and eight kg Hashish concealed in improvised cavities of the vehicle. A person on board identiSied as Noor Bakhsh resident of Panjgur was also apprehended.

ANF Rawalpindi arrested a foreign bound passenger identiSied as Ab-

dullah Khan r/o Charsadda at Benazir Bhutto International Airport, Islamabad on suspicion of having ingested Heroin Silled capsules.

Later on, 400 grams Amphetamine was recovered from ingested Heroin Silled capsules. In another operation, ANF Rawalpindi arrested a suspected passenger Muhammad Rehman r/o Mardan at Benazir Bhutto International Airport, Islamabad while he was to board for Abu Dhabi. During interrogation, he confessed of having Heroin Silled capsules in his stomach, which later on resulted in recovery of Heroin weighing 620

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grams Heroin.

ANF Lahore acting on a tip-off intercepted a car near Faizpur Motorway Toll Plaza, Lahore and recovered 108 kg Hashish concealed inside the car.

Two drug traffickers on board namely Muhammad Shabbir and Muhammad Sawar both r/o Sheikhupura were also arrested.

ANF Peshawar during routine checking near Motorway Toll Plaza, Peshawar, arrested a drug carrier namely Tanveer Abbas r/o Attock along with one kg Hashish and two gram Methamphetamine.