Karachi, January 5, 2024 – Pakistan Customs has established a set of conditions for the repayment of drawback on the export of imported goods during the tax year 2024.
The updated guidelines, outlined in the Customs Act, 1969, provide a framework for businesses seeking reimbursement on customs duties paid on imported goods destined for export.
Under the new regulations, Pakistan Customs has laid out specific conditions for the repayment of drawback on the export of goods, emphasizing the need for compliance with the following criteria:
1. Identification of Goods:
• The goods, which are capable of being easily identified and have been previously imported into Pakistan with customs duties paid, must be satisfactorily identified by an officer of customs. This officer should not be below the rank of Assistant Collector of Customs at the relevant customs station.
2. Export Timing:
• The goods must be entered for export within two years from the date of their importation, as recorded by the customs-house. In cases where additional time is required, the Board or the Collector of Customs may extend this period for a sufficient cause within the extended time.
3. Time Limit for Extension:
• The Collector of Customs is authorized to extend the time for export, but not beyond three years from the date of importation of such goods.
The newly introduced conditions aim to streamline and regulate the process of drawback repayment, ensuring transparency, and facilitating a smooth flow of goods through the customs system. This move by Pakistan Customs aligns with broader efforts to enhance efficiency and accountability in the customs procedures, promoting a business-friendly environment.
The explanation provided in the regulations clarifies that, for the purpose of this section, goods will be deemed to have been entered for export on the date when the goods declaration is delivered to the appropriate officer under section 131.
Businesses engaged in international trade are urged to familiarize themselves with these updated conditions to avoid any complications during the export process. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for businesses seeking drawback repayment on customs duties, and adherence to the specified timelines is paramount.
Experts in trade and customs affairs have welcomed these conditions, noting that they provide a clear and standardized framework for businesses to follow. The move is seen as a positive step towards promoting transparency, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and encouraging greater participation in international trade.
As the business community adapts to these new conditions, it is anticipated that the streamlined process will contribute to a more efficient and seamless export-import cycle, ultimately benefiting the overall economic landscape of Pakistan. Businesses are advised to stay informed about any further updates and amendments to customs regulations to ensure continued compliance with the evolving trade environment.
