Press Conference Held on Achievements of Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force

Customs reforms introduced under the Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force have led to significant improvements, with the average revenue per Goods Declaration (GD) increasing by 16 percent to approximately Rs7.7 million. Import-related tax collection also rose by 14 percent, while customs clearance time at ports dramatically dropped from 53 hours to 18 hours.

These details were shared by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) during a joint press conference alongside Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force Iftikhar Ahmed Rao and Secretary Maritime Affairs Nadeem Mahbub. It was highlighted that 85 of the 99 identified reform measures have already been completed to enhance Pakistan’s maritime competitiveness and ease of doing business.

A key reform, the introduction of the faceless customs assessment system, has eliminated direct interaction between customs officials and importers, thereby improving transparency and strengthening compliance. Anti-smuggling enforcement has also yielded positive results, with legal imports of tyres increasing by 42 percent, fabrics by 41 percent, toiletries by 75 percent, and electronics by 105 percent, indicating a significant reduction in illicit trade.

Sources: Business Recorder

Available reports indicate that Port Qasim is ranked among the world’s top five ports.

Sources: Express News

The press conference held on July 9, 2026, highlighted positive developments for Karachi Ports and advancements in transshipment, according to the Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force.

Sources: BOL News