Karachi, March 26, 2025 – The Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA) has voiced serious concerns over the persistent delays in the review process for Goods Declaration (GD) filings related to consignment clearance.
The association highlighted that these delays are disrupting trade operations and increasing costs for businesses, impacting the overall efficiency of Pakistan’s import-export sector.
KCAA pointed out that the delays at both the first and second review stages are significantly hampering customs procedures. These bottlenecks lead to extended waiting times for customs agents and traders, increased container rental costs, and mounting port demurrages. The association stressed that such delays not only slow down clearance operations but also add unnecessary financial burdens on stakeholders.
Muhammad Aamir, President of KCAA, stated that the first review, conducted at the Principal Appraiser level, already takes several days. However, the second review, overseen by Deputy Collectors, is facing even longer delays. He emphasized that the second review is a crucial phase where stakeholders get the opportunity for a personal hearing regarding their consignment clearance. Ideally, once a GD is assigned to a Deputy Collector, the assessment should be completed within 24 to 48 hours. Unfortunately, due to the overwhelming workload at the second review level, the process is taking much longer, causing unnecessary delays and inefficiencies in customs clearance.
To tackle these persistent delays, KCAA has proposed the following measures:
1. Access to Clearance Time Data: KCAA has requested clearance time data from the past two months to evaluate how long Deputy Collectors are taking to finalize GD assessments. Analyzing this data will help identify bottlenecks and introduce necessary improvements.
2. Establishment of a Fixed Timeline: To ensure efficiency, KCAA recommends that Deputy Collectors complete GD assessments within a strict 48-hour timeframe. This measure will help eliminate unnecessary delays and streamline trade operations.
The Karachi Customs Agents Association has urged authorities to take swift action in resolving these delays. KCAA emphasized that prompt measures, including providing transparency in clearance timelines and enforcing strict assessment deadlines, are essential for maintaining smooth trade operations and strengthening Pakistan’s economy.