Arrangement will strengthen intelligence sharing, enforcement cooperation and security of international trade supply chains
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs have signed a cooperative arrangement to strengthen bilateral cooperation and mutual administrative assistance in Customs matters.
A virtual signing ceremony for the “Co-operative Arrangement regarding Co-operation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs” was held at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Headquarters in Islamabad.
The ceremony was chaired by Syed Shakeel Shah, Member Customs (Operations), FBR.
Framework for stronger Customs cooperation
The arrangement establishes a structured framework for closer cooperation between the Customs administrations of Pakistan and Hong Kong.
It covers the exchange of information and intelligence, surveillance of suspected consignments and persons, and mutual assistance in enforcing the respective Customs laws of the two sides.
The agreement is aligned with internationally recognised Customs cooperation standards promoted by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
It also reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs to strengthening enforcement and improving the security of international trade supply chains.
FBR highlights benefits of agreement
Speaking at the ceremony, Syed Shakeel Shah welcomed representatives of Hong Kong Customs and appreciated their cooperation in completing the arrangement.
He also acknowledged the efforts of officials from both sides who worked towards finalising the agreement.
Shah said enhanced cooperation between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs would help establish a stronger long-term institutional relationship and enable both administrations to respond more effectively to emerging challenges in the Customs sector.
He added that the arrangement would support optimal revenue collection and effective trade facilitation.
The FBR official also assured Hong Kong Customs of Pakistan Customs’ continued cooperation in areas involving mutual assistance and collaboration.
Signing process completed
Following the virtual signing ceremony, two copies of the instrument were exchanged between the Head of Hong Kong Customs and the Consul General of Pakistan in Hong Kong, formally completing the signing process.
The cooperative arrangement marks an important step towards strengthening Customs cooperation between Pakistan and Hong Kong.
It is expected to improve the exchange of Customs-related information and intelligence, support enforcement efforts and contribute to a more secure and facilitative international trading environment.
The arrangement also provides both administrations with a stronger institutional basis for tackling Customs-related challenges while facilitating legitimate international trade.