In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) announced on Wednesday an exemption from customs duty on the import of oxygen gas and oxygen gas cylinders. This measure aims to ensure the availability of these essential supplies as the country battles the spread of the virus.
The FBR issued Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 593(I)/2020, which exempts the import of oxygen gas and oxygen gas cylinders from customs duty for three months, effective from June 23, 2020. This decision is expected to alleviate the pressure on the healthcare system by making these critical resources more accessible and affordable.
The exemption applies to specific Pakistan Customs Tariff (PCT) codes, including:
• Oxygen gas: PCT code 2804.4000
• Cylinders for oxygen gas: PCT code 7311.0090
• Cryogenic tanks for oxygen gas: PCT code 7311.0030
By reducing the financial burden associated with importing these items, the FBR aims to support hospitals and healthcare providers in their efforts to treat COVID-19 patients. The exemption is particularly significant as the demand for medical oxygen has surged, driven by the increasing number of patients requiring respiratory support.
“The exemption will apply to letters of credit opened or goods declarations filed on and from June 23, 2020,” stated the FBR. This means that any imports of oxygen gas and cylinders initiated from this date onwards will benefit from the duty exemption.
Healthcare professionals have welcomed the FBR’s decision, noting that it will help mitigate the challenges faced in managing the pandemic. The availability of oxygen is crucial for treating severe COVID-19 cases, and the exemption is expected to improve the supply chain, ensuring that hospitals are better equipped to handle the influx of patients.
The exemption also reflects the government’s proactive approach to addressing the healthcare crisis. By easing the financial constraints on importing essential medical supplies, the FBR is supporting the overall efforts to combat the pandemic and safeguard public health.
As the country continues to navigate the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, measures such as this customs duty exemption are vital for ensuring that healthcare providers have the necessary resources to respond effectively. The FBR’s initiative is a positive step towards strengthening the healthcare infrastructure and enhancing the capacity to manage the ongoing health emergency.
With the exemption in place, it is expected that the availability of oxygen gas and cylinders will improve, thereby contributing to the overall effectiveness of the COVID-19 response. The FBR’s action underscores the importance of timely and strategic interventions in addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic.