FBR clarifies delay in track, trace system implementation

FBR clarifies delay in track, trace system implementation

ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has said that implementation of track and trace system has been stayed by a court. As soon the stay is vacated by the court the process will be implemented, said a statement issued on Monday.

The FBR issued the clarification in response to news reports published on January 20, 2020 about delay in the implementation of FBR’s Track & Trace System to control illicit tobacco trade.

FBR has clarified that a license has been issued to M/s NRTC on October 14, 2019 through a transparent and fair process of bidding which is strictly in accordance with the PPRA Rules, 2004 and Licensing Rules, 2019.

However, the award of license to lowest bidder i.e. M/s NRTC was challenged by some unsuccessful bidders i.e. M/s SICPA Ink in Sindh High Court and M/s Reliance IT Solutions (Pvt) Ltd and M/s NIFT Consortium in Islamabad High Court.

Since, the Honorable Court has granted status quo and the matter is sub-judice before the aforesaid courts, therefore, there is no delay on the part of FBR.

The process of implementation of Track and Trace System will be resumed as and when the stay order is vacated by the Honorable Court.