Karachi, June 1, 2025 – The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has extended its full support for the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) system and has urged the federal government to accelerate its expansion across all ports and customs stations in Pakistan.
In a press release issued even on a public holiday—a gesture that underscores the significance of the matter—KCCI expressed concern over rumors suggesting a possible rollback of the faceless system and stressed the need for continuity and broader implementation.
KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani emphasized that the faceless customs model has brought transformative changes to Pakistan’s trade and customs infrastructure. “Only those involved in misdeclaration, under-invoicing, or other illicit practices have found the system difficult,” he said. “For the vast majority of compliant importers and exporters, the FCA has made the entire process faster, simpler, and more transparent. Any speculation about reversing this progress must be strongly discouraged.”
Bilwani lauded the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Customs for their bold step in launching the faceless customs assessment system in Karachi. He described the move as a model reform initiative that should be replicated across the country without delay. By incorporating cutting-edge Information Technology (IT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the FCA system has eliminated the need for physical interaction, drastically curbing opportunities for corruption and rent-seeking.
The KCCI chief highlighted that the faceless customs mechanism has streamlined documentation procedures, significantly reduced clearance times, and decreased the cost of doing business. The shift away from discretionary powers traditionally exercised by customs officials has increased predictability and reduced the dependence on clearing agents. Bilwani also noted the rising adoption of self-clearance by businesses, who are now empowered to manage shipments independently through digital platforms.
One of the most impactful benefits of the FCA system, Bilwani stated, has been the near-total elimination of physical visits to Customs House. This has saved businesses both time and operational costs while protecting them from the malpractices that were previously entrenched in manual systems. “This faceless customs system has provided a secure and equitable environment where genuine traders can thrive without fear or unfair treatment,” he said.
Calling the Karachi implementation a success story, Bilwani stressed the urgency of replicating the faceless customs model nationwide. “Karachi has proven that when technology is used with integrity and commitment, reform is not just possible—it’s transformative,” he said. “Delays in rolling out this system to other ports would be a step backward.”
KCCI also called on the government to introduce similar IT-driven reforms in all departments connected with trade, taxation, and regulation. Complete digitization of processes—from submission and assessment to approvals and clearance—will enhance transparency, reduce human discretion, and root out inefficiency and corruption across the trade ecosystem.
Bilwani concluded by applauding Customs officials in Karachi for their dedication to implementing the FCA system effectively. Reaffirming KCCI’s support for reform and modernization, he said, “Pakistan’s future lies in embracing technology, removing corrupt practices, and empowering honest entrepreneurs. The faceless customs assessment system is a landmark reform—and KCCI stands firmly behind it.”