FBR introduces strict law against smuggling

Smuggled goods, vehicles used in their transportation will be confiscated

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued directives for the implementation of law to curb smuggling and imposition of heavy fine and imprisonment of up to seven years on traders involved in misuse of Afghan Transit Trade.

A senior officer of FBR, while speaking to The Express Tribune said that a new clause 63(i) has been included in section 156 part B of Customs Act 1969, therefore, implementation of the said clause should be made mandatory and cases of smuggling be dealt accordingly.

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FBR authorities said that under the new law, smuggled goods and vehicles used in their transportation will be confiscated and a fine ten times the value of illegal goods will be imposed.

It was further told that if the goods for transshipment are offloaded somewhere other than their destination, the goods as well as the vehicle carrying them will be confiscated.

If the goods are prohibited or pilfered, they will be confiscated and action will be taken against the importer, supervisor and bonded carrier and a fine ten times the value of illegal goods will be imposed.

In addition, the case will be run before a special judge and an imprisonment of up to seven years will be awarded.

Similarly, if transshipment rules for the import of goods are violated, action will be taken against the violator, inland carrier and supervisor and a fine of up to Rs500,000 or a penalty three times the value of import duty or taxes will be imposed.