LAHORE, January 26 — Pakistan Customs on Sunday highlighted its commitment to safeguarding society and strengthening trade facilitation in line with the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) 2026 theme, “Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment,” during a special ceremony held in Lahore.
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The event provided an opportunity for WCO member administrations to showcase initiatives aimed at enhancing border security, improving compliance, and promoting sustainable trade. In Pakistan, the ceremony underscored the evolving responsibilities of Customs in an increasingly digital and interconnected global trading environment.
Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan, attended as the chief guest, accompanied by Agha Saeed, Collector Customs Enforcemen Agha Saeed Khan and Chief Collector Customs Enforcement Naveed Illahi. Senior Customs officials, representatives from the business community, and trade stakeholders were also present.
Addressing the gathering, Agha Saeed praised the dedication and resilience of Pakistan Customs officers, noting that their role extends beyond revenue collection to protecting society from illicit trade, fraud, and cross-border crime. He emphasized the importance of continuous professional development, institutional strengthening, and the adoption of modern technologies to meet emerging challenges.
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Speakers highlighted the introduction of digital solutions, including the use of artificial intelligence at port areas, to streamline clearance processes, enhance risk management, and improve transparency. These measures, they said, are helping reduce delays, curb malpractices, and create a more predictable trading environment for importers and exporters.
Malik Ahmad Khan stressed that facilitation and protection must go hand in hand, especially as Pakistan seeks to position itself more effectively within the global trade network. He described trade as a key driver of economic growth and emphasized that strong and credible Customs services are essential for ensuring economic viability. Commending recent reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, he said these steps have strengthened institutional performance and improved service delivery.
He also called for strict action against those who breach laws and regulations, urging Customs authorities to deal “with an iron hand” against smugglers and tax evaders to maintain fairness and protect legitimate businesses.
Chief Collector Naveed Illahi echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the private sector to foster compliance and promote sustainable trade practices.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of certificates of appreciation to top-performing traders and outstanding Customs officers in recognition of their contributions to trade facilitation, enforcement, and the protection of society.
