Customs authorities assure PCDMA of relief on costly ICIS price verification, full implementation of the DPL waiver and restoration of NTN-based self-clearance facilities.
KARACHI, November 3, 2026: Pakistan Customs and the Pakistan Chemicals & Dyes Merchants Association (PCDMA) have agreed to address longstanding issues faced by commercial importers through mutual consultation and improved coordination, with progress reported on ICIS scan pricing, DPL waivers, self-clearance facilities and customs valuation rulings.
The understanding was reached during a meeting between a PCDMA delegation, led by Chairman Muhammad Saleem Muakti, and Chief Collector of Customs Appraisement (South) Wajid Ali at Customs House, Karachi.
The meeting focused on challenges confronting commercial importers and measures to streamline customs procedures and facilitate trade.
Relief from costly ICIS scan pricing
The PCDMA delegation highlighted that ICIS scan services cost approximately $15,000 to $20,000 annually, making them unaffordable for many importers.
The Chief Collector agreed that PCDMA could issue price verification certificates for imported raw materials based on available market information and resources. Customs could accept these certificates as an alternative to ICIS scan pricing where price verification is required.
DPL waiver to be fully implemented
Regarding the DPL waiver, the delegation requested that the three-month concession granted by the relevant regulator, NEPSA, be implemented in full without excluding any period.
The Chief Collector assured the delegation that Customs would honour the entire three-month waiver and would not create unnecessary hurdles for importers.
NTN-based self-clearance facility
The delegation also sought restoration of the NTN-based self-clearance facility for commercial importers for at least six months.
Previously, importers could clear consignments using their National Tax Number (NTN) for one year, which was subsequently reduced to six months. The facility is now being granted on a case-by-case basis against the Bill of Lading (BL), making the process lengthy and complicated.
The Chief Collector agreed that PCDMA could issue recommendation letters for its members. Customs would use these recommendations to verify importers and grant NTN-based self-clearance approval for at least six months on a priority basis.
Customs valuation rulings under review
The delegation also called for updating customs valuation rulings to reflect daily fluctuations in international commodity prices and changing trade practices.
The Chief Collector assured the participants that the matter would be examined and appropriate measures considered through further consultation.
PCDMA Chairman Saleem Muakti appreciated the cooperation extended by Customs authorities, expressing confidence that implementing the agreed measures would reduce importers’ difficulties and make customs clearance more efficient and transparent.
He emphasised that stronger coordination between Customs and the business community was essential for removing import bottlenecks and creating a more business-friendly trading environment.