Afghan imports temporarily exempt from certificate

Negotiations between customs authorities and traders have proved successful, resulting in a temporary exemption for the Certificate of Origin requirement on Afghan imports until June 30.

According to Customs Collector Azood Mehdi, productive discussions were held with a delegation representing traders regarding the mandatory Certificate of Origin for goods imported from Afghanistan.

The Collector clarified that under Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) regulations, the certificate is a legal requirement for all Afghan imports.

However, a special exemption has been granted for specific goods, including cotton, beans, coal, and soapstone.

A total of 667 cargo vehicles carrying these items had been halted at the Torkham border due to the absence of the required documentation.

These consignments will now be allowed clearance upon submission of a written affidavit, in lieu of the certificate, valid until June 30.

After the deadline, all Afghan imports must be accompanied by the Certificate of Origin without exception.

Traders have welcomed the temporary relief and expressed their gratitude to the customs authorities for the flexibility and cooperation.