Karachi, February 25, 2025 – In a significant move to enhance trade facilitation and improve the transparency of customs operations, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced the establishment of a Centralized Customs Examination Unit (CEU) in Karachi. This new initiative is designed to bolster customs oversight, expedite the clearance of goods, and streamline the overall customs process, ensuring that Pakistan’s trade infrastructure aligns with international best practices.
The FBR’s decision to create the CEU comes as part of its broader strategy to modernize customs procedures, reduce bottlenecks, and make the clearance process more efficient for businesses and importers. To formalize this effort, the FBR issued Customs General Order (CGO) No. 1 of 2025, which outlines the operational framework for the CEU and sets clear guidelines for its functioning.
A key aspect of the CEU’s operation is its centralized location in Karachi, a major hub for international trade. The Chief Collector of Customs Appraisement (South), Karachi, has been tasked with designating the exact location for the unit, with Deputy and Assistant Collectors appointed to handle any system-related, logistical, or operational issues that may arise. These officials will play a critical role in resolving challenges to ensure smooth and timely customs examinations.
Under the new framework, all consignments arriving at terminals within the Karachi Port will undergo customs examination through the CEU. The Goods Declarations (GDs) filed at the Collectorates of Customs, Appraisement—East, West, and SAPT, Karachi will be processed by the CEU system. In the second phase of the initiative, the CEU will expand to include other customs stations, such as Port Qasim and other locations nationwide, further streamlining the customs process across Pakistan.
One of the key features of the CEU is the implementation of a randomized rotation system for appraisers. The Customs Computerized System (CCS) will ensure impartial customs examinations by randomly rotating appraisers across different terminals. This approach guarantees fairness and eliminates any potential bias or conflict of interest in the examination process.
The FBR is also committed to completing customs inspections promptly. Whenever possible, examinations will be completed on the same day, with any pending inspections finalized by the following day. This focus on speed is expected to significantly reduce delays in trade processes, ultimately benefiting businesses and improving the overall efficiency of Pakistan’s trade system.
To ensure compliance with all relevant customs regulations, including the Customs Act of 1969 and other relevant notices and rulings, the CEU will operate with advanced technology. The unit will be equipped with tablets, body cameras, and a centralized control room for real-time monitoring of the examination process. The footage from these devices will be stored for at least three months, allowing for transparent oversight and accountability.
Importers and customs agents will also have the option to request re-examinations, but such requests will require approval from the Additional Collector of the concerned Collectorate before being processed by the CEU. This ensures that the examination process remains thorough and in compliance with all established rules and procedures.
This new initiative demonstrates the FBR’s commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s customs operations. The CEU is expected to make the examination process more efficient, transparent, and aligned with global standards, ultimately benefiting businesses, enhancing trade, and improving Pakistan’s competitive position in the global market. By minimizing delays and optimizing customs procedures, the FBR aims to foster a more robust and effective trade environment, facilitating greater economic growth in the country.