Islamabad, August 17, 2023 – The Pakistan Single Window (PSW) initiative has achieved a significant milestone by seamlessly integrating its digital services with four key government departments as part of its Phase-II rollout.
This move is a significant step towards streamlining cross-border trade and facilitating efficient trade-related processes.
The integration of PSW’s digital services with the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), the Marine Fisheries Department (MFD), the Ministry of Narcotics Control (MNC), and partially with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) enables these government entities to expedite the issuance of certificates, licenses, and permissions to cross-border traders through electronic channels. This transformation facilitates a more comprehensive and inclusive platform for trade facilitation.
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Furthermore, PSW has successfully integrated with the Sindh Excise, Taxation & Narcotics Control department for collecting provincial cess and other cross-border trade-related services.
Through its integration with MNC and MFD, PSW now facilitates the online processing and issuance of Import Permits and Export Certificates. This digital transformation results in substantial time and cost savings for businesses engaged in cross-border trade. Similarly, PSW’s integration with DRAP expedites the registration and approval process for entities within its regulatory scope.
The integration with MMD marks a pivotal step in digital trade facilitation. The department can now electronically issue seaworthiness certificates for the import of used ships and boats, enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative burdens.
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Syed Aftab Haider, the CEO of PSW, emphasized the initiative’s dedication to providing a cutting-edge digital experience that benefits regulators and cross-border traders alike. He highlighted that the support and collaboration of various government agencies and partner organizations were instrumental in achieving the set benchmarks and driving overall economic growth.
As part of the ongoing rollout process, PSW is conducting information and training sessions to ensure that stakeholders can optimally utilize the system. The platform’s user adoption has reached approximately 69,000, and its reach in terms of locations, services, Other Government Agencies (OGAs), and new modules continues to expand steadily.
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In addition to streamlining trade-related processes, PSW also offers online payment options on its platform, enabling traders to execute financial transactions with relevant departments seamlessly. The user-friendly interfaces available to importers, exporters, and processing staff of regulatory departments contribute to the ease of doing business.
The PSW initiative is committed to further integration with government agencies such as DRAP, TDAP, and BOI as part of its phased rollout strategy. The focus remains on developing a comprehensive Port Community System and continuously enhancing trade facilitation efforts.
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