The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has established a Central Appraisement Unit (CAU) in Karachi to ensure transparency and uniformity in processing Goods Declarations (GDs).

As reported by local media, the CAU is the main component of customs reforms under the Faceless Customs Assessment (FCA) system, which is aimed at modernizing customs operations that lighten up the workload of Appraising officers (AOs) and streamline trade procedures.

The new system is outlined in Customs General Order (CGO) No. 06 of 2024.

Initially, the CAU will manage consignments at Karachi Port and Port Muhammad Bin Qasim, with plans to expand the system to air freight units, dry ports, and border customs stations across Pakistan.

The Chief Collector of Customs Appraisement (South), Karachi, will establish a CAU at a designated location in Karachi.

Operating under strict protocols, the CAU will prioritize the security and integrity of its processes.

Deputy and assistant collectors for MIS/CAU will be posted to the unit by the chief collector to address system-related and operational issues efficiently.

Additionally, the chief collector will ensure that the CAU Hall is completely isolated and sanitized to maintain a controlled work environment. As part of these measures, cellular phones will be strictly prohibited within the CAU premises.

The GDs assessment will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act 1969 and its associated rules.

This includes compliance with Valuation Rulings, Customs General Orders, Public Notices, and instructions issued by the FBR periodically, as well as adherence to all other applicable laws and regulations.

Source: Dawn