Karachi, January 22, 2024 – In a significant development, Customs Laws in Pakistan have explicitly outlined a three-year jail term for those found guilty of falsifying declarations.
The updated the Customs Act, 1969 for the tax year 2024 emphasizes the severity of penalties for individuals involved in the distortion of declarations related to customs transactions.
The updated law, which came into effect this year, covers a range of offenses related to the falsification of declarations. According to the provisions outlined in the amendment:
“If any person counterfeits, falsifies, or fraudulently alters or destroys any declaration, statement, or document in the transaction of any business relating to customs or any seal, signature, initials, or other mark made or impressed by any officer of customs in the transaction of any business relating to customs; or being required under this Act to produce any document, refuses or neglects to produce such a document; or Being required under this Act to answer any question put to him by an officer of customs, does not correctly answer such a question, such person shall, on conviction of any such offense before a Special Judge be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or to a fine, or to both.”
This amendment reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of customs transactions and ensuring that individuals engaged in any form of deception or evasion face stringent consequences. The specified three-year jail term is aimed at acting as a deterrent and discouraging any attempts to manipulate customs declarations, which can have far-reaching consequences on the economy and the efficient functioning of customs procedures.
The role of customs in facilitating international trade cannot be overstated, and the need to maintain accuracy and honesty in customs declarations is pivotal for the smooth operation of this process. Any attempt to counterfeit or manipulate documents not only undermines the integrity of the customs system but also poses a risk to the revenue collection process.
The amendment further highlights the importance of cooperation with customs officials during investigations. Refusal or neglect to produce required documents or providing incorrect answers to questions posed by customs officers can now lead to serious legal consequences, including imprisonment for up to three years, fines, or a combination of both.
It is imperative for businesses and individuals engaged in customs-related transactions to stay informed about these amendments and ensure strict compliance with the law. The Customs Act, 1969, now with enhanced penalties, underscores the government’s commitment to creating a transparent and accountable customs environment in Pakistan.
As this updated legislation takes effect, it is expected to strengthen the legal framework surrounding customs transactions, promote ethical business practices, and contribute to the overall efficiency and credibility of customs operations in the country.
