FBR implements new customs penalties and officer reshuffle

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has implemented significant changes to the Pakistan Customs Service, including revised penalty structures and a major reshuffle of senior officers.

Under new regulations effective October 1, the FBR has increased penalties for various customs violations, with fines reaching up to Rs. 1 million. These updates target delays in goods declarations and the late removal of imported shipments. Importers are now required to file goods declarations within 20 days of arrival at a customs station. Failure to comply will result in escalating daily fines, starting at Rs. 25,000 and increasing to Rs. 50,000 per day after the initial five-day grace period.

Additionally, the FBR announced a large-scale transfer of high-ranking officials within the Pakistan Customs Service. The reshuffle includes several BS-20 and BS-19 officers, with new postings in Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi, Lahore, and Gadani. These appointments and transfers are effective immediately.