Pakistan, Hong Kong Customs forge partnership

Assistance framework covers intelligence exchange, suspected cargo monitoring

ISLAMABAD:

A virtual ceremony was held at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) headquarters for the signing of the "Co-operative Arrangement regarding Co-operation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs."

The cooperative arrangement provides the Customs administrations of Pakistan and Hong Kong with a structured framework for enhanced cooperation and mutual administrative assistance. It provides for the exchange of information and intelligence, surveillance of suspected consignments and persons, and mutual assistance in the enforcement of the respective Customs laws of the two sides.

The arrangement reflects internationally recognised standards of Customs cooperation, promoted by the World Customs Organisation, and reaffirms the shared commitment of both Customs administrations to strengthening enforcement actions and securing the international trade supply chain.

In his remarks, Member Customs (Operations) Syed Shakeel Shah welcomed the representatives of Hong Kong Customs and expressed appreciation for their cooperation and partnership. He also acknowledged the efforts of officers from both sides whose diligent work contributed to finalising the arrangement.

Shah stated that enhanced cooperation between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs would go a long way towards fostering a long-term institutional relationship and enable them to effectively address emerging challenges in Customs administration. He emphasised that their collaboration would contribute to optimal revenue collection and effective trade facilitation.