Karachi, February 3, 2025 – The All Pakistan Customs Agents Association (APCAA) has issued a stern warning to halt all customs clearance operations across the country in response to the suspension of its members’ licenses.
The association has strongly condemned the move, calling it an unjust action that threatens to paralyze trade and commerce nationwide.
APCAA Chairman Saifullah Khan stated that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has revoked the licenses of 45 customs agents as part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in the newly introduced faceless customs assessment system. “This decision is unacceptable. Our members have been unfairly targeted, and we will take all necessary steps, including legal action, to challenge this order,” he asserted.
The APCAA has accused customs appraisers of blackmailing its agents and deliberately creating obstacles in clearance procedures. “Our agents have faced undue pressure and exploitation. If our grievances are not addressed, we will be left with no choice but to suspend all import and export activities across Pakistan,” said Khan.
In light of these developments, APCAA has scheduled an emergency meeting at 4 PM today to strategize its next course of action. The association has also been engaged in discussions with the Chief Collector of Customs, but so far, no significant progress has been made. Instead, the Chief Collector has demanded detailed profiles of the affected agents, a move APCAA considers an attempt to intimidate its members.
In a counter-demand, APCAA has urged the authorities to provide profiles of customs officers living in extravagant homes and owning high-end vehicles. “We want transparency. How can customs officials, earning a modest government salary, afford luxury properties and expensive cars? The Chief Collector should also disclose his own financial details,” the association stated.
APCAA insists that it has always supported the implementation of the faceless system to improve efficiency and curb corruption. However, it argues that internal mismanagement and flawed execution have caused the system to collapse. Despite an increase in imports leading to higher revenue collection, APCAA alleges that the Customs Department has misled Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif by presenting inflated revenue figures to exaggerate the system’s success.
The association has vowed to escalate its protests if corrective measures are not taken immediately, warning that an indefinite suspension of customs clearance operations could have dire consequences for Pakistan’s trade and economy.
