A major scandal has surfaced as billions lost as banned goods cleared via customs without oversight, exposing serious flaws in Pakistan’s import control system. Authorities have identified multiple cases where restricted or banned items were cleared through customs due to weak monitoring and lack of accountability.
Sources reveal that customs officials allowed clearance of banned goods by misusing exemption codes and exploiting policy loopholes. This has led to huge financial losses for the national exchequer, with estimates pointing to billions of rupees in lost revenue.
The issue came to light during a recent audit, which revealed that several shipments containing banned items like luxury vehicles, electronic appliances, and hazardous materials were approved without proper documentation or checks. These goods, officials say, should have been blocked at the entry point.
Billions lost as banned goods cleared via customs without oversight is now under investigation by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The agency has launched an internal probe to determine how such massive oversights occurred and who was responsible.
Analysts warn that this kind of negligence not only causes financial damage but also threatens national safety and market stability. Banned goods, especially low-quality or dangerous items, can disrupt local industries and endanger consumers.
Traders and business groups have also expressed concern. They say that honest importers are being unfairly affected by unchecked illegal practices. They’re calling for strict enforcement of rules and real-time tracking systems to stop further abuse.
FBR officials have pledged action, stating that those involved will be held accountable. They also promised new measures, including digital monitoring and AI-based customs screening, to prevent future incidents.
In summary, billions lost as banned goods cleared via customs without oversight serves as a wake-up call for tighter controls and serious reforms in Pakistan’s customs operations.
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