Karachi, December 12, 2023 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has posted Dr. Fareed Iqbal Qureshi as the new Member Customs Operations, effective Tuesday.
This strategic posting is expected to bolster efforts in enhancing consignment clearance procedures, curbing under-invoicing, and fortifying anti-smuggling measures across the country.
Dr. Qureshi, a seasoned BS-21 officer of the Pakistan Customs Service, will be stepping into this crucial role after his repatriation from the position of Secretary at the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Karachi. The FBR, through an official notification, expressed confidence in Dr. Qureshi’s capabilities to address the challenges associated with the efficient functioning of goods clearance and the prevention of smuggling activities along the borders.
The outgoing Member Customs Operations, Ms. Zeba Hai Azhar, a BS-21 officer of the Pakistan Customs Service, will be assuming a new role as Member at the Federal Board of Revenue (Headquarters), Islamabad. Ms. Azhar, with her wealth of experience, has been instrumental in overseeing customs operations and contributing to the revenue collection framework.
The Member Customs Operations position holds significance due to its pivotal role in ensuring the smooth processing of goods clearance and combating smuggling activities. Dr. Qureshi’s appointment is anticipated to bring about further improvements in these areas, particularly in preventing under-invoicing and mis-declaration, which can have adverse effects on revenue collection.
The FBR’s decision to entrust Dr. Qureshi with this key responsibility aligns with the board’s commitment to fostering a transparent and efficient customs system. His experience in various roles within the Pakistan Customs Service and his recent stint as the Secretary at TDAP positions him well to navigate the intricacies of customs operations and contribute to the broader goals of revenue enhancement and border security.
One of the primary expectations from Dr. Qureshi’s tenure is the strengthening of anti-smuggling activities across the country. This move aims to ensure the integrity of duty and taxes and to safeguard the nation’s economic interests from illicit trade practices.
Stakeholders in trade and business are keenly observing these developments, as the effectiveness of customs operations directly influences the ease of doing business in the country. Dr. Qureshi’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for trade, by ensuring transparent and swift clearance processes while maintaining the highest standards of compliance.
Dr. Fareed Iqbal Qureshi’s appointment as Member Customs Operations brings fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience to a position critical to the economic and security interests of Pakistan. As he assumes this responsibility, expectations are high for advancements in consignment clearance, rigorous anti-smuggling measures, and an overall improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations under his guidance.
