Clearance of imported consignments at risk

Additional 100% surcharge imposed on imported vehicles, mobiles and home appliances

KARACHI:

As a result of the steps taken recently by the federal government, the clearance of used cars, mobile phones and home appliances’ consignments including 750 to 800 vehicles is at risk. This is due to the imposition of 100% regulatory duty along with 100% surcharge on the already imported second-hand vehicles, home appliances and mobile phones.

Sources told The Express Tribune that the federal government lifted the ban on imports of more than 600 luxury items including vehicles, mobile phones and home appliances and issued clearance orders with 25% to 35% surcharge on goods imported till August 18. However, a 100% surcharge has been imposed on the import of vehicles, home appliances and mobile phones.

Sources revealed that due to the ban imposed by the government on the import of luxury goods in May, the importers had not filed Goods Declarations of the vehicles arriving in the country with the customs department. However, on August 19, the federal government lifted the ban and made the clearance of imported vehicles subject to payment of 100% regulatory duty on the declared value.

This has been applied to the already imported vehicles as well, causing concern among importers and overseas Pakistanis alike. According to the government orders, the permission for clearance with 25% surcharge has been given to all luxury items, except vehicles, mobile phones and home appliances, which have arrived in Pakistan by July 31, and with 35% surcharge on luxury items arriving between August 1 and August 18.