Commerce ministry adds non-textile product to claim drawback

Commerce ministry adds non-textile product to claim drawback

ISLAMABAD – The Ministry of Commerce has issued a corrigendum to SRO 711(I)/2018 dated June 08, 2018, expanding the scope of non-textile drawback of duty and taxes.

The amendment includes the addition of another meat product, specifically fowls of the species gallus domesticus, for eligibility in the drawback scheme.

The corrigendum, outlined in a notification, addresses a specific entry in the SRO No. 711(I)/2018, which was initially issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Textile (Commerce Division). In the serial No. 15, Column No. 3 of Annex-II, the Harmonized System (HS) code 1602.3200, representing fowls of the species gallus domesticus, is now officially added.

The initial SRO, dated June 08, 2018, laid the foundation for allowing drawback benefits for exported goods other than textile items. The scheme was designed to be effective from July 01, 2018, to June 30, 2021, providing a window for exporters to benefit from the non-textile drawback facility.

Under the original SRO, the Ministry of Commerce allowed a four percent drawback on the export of meat and meat preparations, including poultry. This measure aimed to support the meat industry and encourage international trade in these products. The recent corrigendum further extends this benefit to the export of meat products classified under the HS code 1602.3200, focusing specifically on fowls of the species gallus domesticus.

The move is expected to have a positive impact on the meat export sector, providing exporters with financial incentives and reducing the overall cost of exporting specified meat products. It aligns with the government’s broader strategy to diversify export offerings and capitalize on the potential of the agriculture and livestock sectors.

As a result of this corrigendum, exporters dealing with fowls of the species gallus domesticus can now benefit from the non-textile drawback scheme, contributing to the growth of Pakistan’s meat export industry. The inclusion of this specific meat product demonstrates the government’s responsiveness to industry needs and its commitment to creating an export-friendly environment.

Industry stakeholders and exporters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated SRO and take advantage of the extended non-textile drawback facility. The Ministry of Commerce aims to streamline export procedures and enhance competitiveness in key sectors, fostering sustainable economic growth and contributing to the country’s overall trade performance.