KARACHI: The All Pakistan Customs Agents Association (APCCA) has announced its decision to suspend import and export clearance services across Pakistan within the next 15 days, a move that threatens to paralyze the country’s trade operations.
APCCA, in letters addressed to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and major business chambers nationwide, cited the “illegal suspension” of 45 customs agents’ licenses and rampant corruption within the customs system as the primary reasons behind the drastic step. The association has accused customs officials of engaging in bribery and unethical practices that have severely hindered trade facilitation.
APCCA Chairman Saifullah Khan expressed grave concerns over the conduct of customs officials, specifically blaming appraisers for demanding bribes in exchange for cargo clearance. He claimed that customs officers were bypassing standard procedures and contacting customs agents directly to solicit illegal gratification.
“Customs officers have been contacting our agents directly, demanding illegal payments for clearing goods,” Khan asserted. “This unprofessional and corrupt behavior is unacceptable and must be addressed immediately.”
In an effort to gain broader support, APCCA has reached out to business chambers in Karachi, Hyderabad, Islamabad, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, as well as industry-specific trade bodies, including the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) and the Pakistan Chemical Dyes Merchants Association. The association has urged them to make alternative arrangements for their customs clearance needs in anticipation of the impending suspension.
The disruption of customs clearance services could severely impact Pakistan’s import and export activities, causing potential delays, financial losses, and supply chain complications. APCCA has emphasized that its actions are not intended to harm trade but to demand justice for its members and restore transparency in customs operations.
Furthermore, APCCA has called for an immediate investigation into the suspended licenses, arguing that the affected agents have been unjustly penalized without due process. The association has urged trade organizations to unite in addressing what it describes as “unethical and unprofessional behavior” exhibited by customs officials.
On the other hand, Pakistan Customs has dismissed APCCA’s allegations, arguing that the customs agents’ decision to halt operations amounts to blackmail. A senior customs official stated, “These pressure tactics will not work. Legal proceedings must be followed, and the suspended licenses will only be restored if the agents are found innocent.”
Despite this, APCCA remains firm in its stance and is rallying trade bodies to take a united approach against what it perceives as an ongoing injustice. As tensions escalate, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the government addresses the association’s concerns or if Pakistan’s trade sector faces a major disruption.
