Karachi, May 7, 2024 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has directed all Pakistan Customs stations to furnish comprehensive details of their workforce.
This directive is a critical component of a broader reform initiative aimed at overhauling the Customs department.
On Tuesday, FBR issued a formal notice to all Chief Collectors and Director Generals of the Customs Department, reinforcing earlier requests made on April 26 and April 29, 2024. These requests sought detailed organograms that outlined both regional and local office structures, specifying the cadre-wise and grade-wise distribution of officers and staff across various sections like Administration, Anti-Smuggling Organizations (ASO), Mobile Verification Units, Model Customs Collectorate (MCD), Appraisement, Risk Management Unit, Audit, Unaccompanied Baggage (UAD), Anti-Illlicit Bot (AIB), and Passenger Facilitation Centers.
Furthermore, the Customs officials were instructed to update their training details in their personal profiles by May 1, 2024, a mandate that has seen sluggish compliance, prompting the FBR to issue a follow-up directive.
The urgency of these measures is underscored by the FBR’s emphasis on the need for the Chief Collectors and Director Generals to personally oversee this exercise, ensuring that all necessary data is accurately collected and promptly reported.
This human resources audit is not merely a bureaucratic checklist but a foundational step in a series of planned reforms aimed at transforming Pakistan Customs into a more agile and responsive entity. By mapping out the exact configuration of personnel across all levels and functions, the FBR intends to identify both redundancies and resource gaps, streamline operations, and optimize workforce allocation.
These reforms come at a crucial time as Pakistan Customs faces increasing challenges ranging from smuggling and trade fraud to evolving international trade protocols. Addressing these challenges effectively requires a well-trained, aptly distributed, and adequately supported staff, along with streamlined processes that enhance both efficiency and accountability.
Moreover, this restructuring is expected to facilitate the implementation of new technologies and processes that are in line with international customs practices. Enhancing digital capabilities and integrating advanced risk management systems are among the top priorities, as they significantly reduce the time and resources spent on routine operations while increasing the accuracy and reliability of customs activities.
The broader implications of these reforms for trade and security are profound. As Pakistan continues to expand its trade networks and engage more deeply in international commerce, a modernized and efficient customs administration is essential to facilitate smooth trade flows, enforce regulatory compliance, and secure the nation’s borders.
Industry experts view this initiative as a pivotal step towards a more transparent and efficient customs administration. The information gathered through this HR audit will provide a clear picture of the current state of the workforce, which is critical for implementing effective changes and achieving the desired outcomes of the reform initiative.
As Pakistan Customs gears up for this transition, the FBR’s commitment to thoroughness and accountability signals a strong dedication to enhancing the nation’s trade capabilities and regulatory frameworks. This initiative not only promises to improve Pakistan’s economic landscape but also strengthens its position in the global trade environment.
