Transit trade directorate detects major misdeclaration

Business Recorder reported that Karachi transit-trade customs officials found load cells in a container headed for the Risalpur Export Processing Zone, although its paperwork identified the cargo as machine press parts. The goods were valued at about Rs688 million, with estimated duties and taxes of Rs165 million. The joint inspection took place on October 19 after officials received specific information.

The importer has held an Export Processing Zones Authority licence since 2021 for artificial-flower and plant production, and later added LED televisions, suitcases and bags to its approved activities. Customs said the load cells appeared inconsistent both with the declared cargo and the importer’s authorised manufacturing work, which must be relevant to imports into the zone. Authorities are starting action under the Customs Act, 1969, including a police report, over the suspected misdeclaration.