By M Yasir
KARACHI: The implementation of the newly intruded Faceless Customs Assessment system has posed significant disruptions, with around 3,500 Goods Declarations (GDs) left unprocessed since December 17.
This delay has led to demurrage and detention charges for importers, resulting huge losses to both traders and the national exchequer.
The Faceless Customs Assessment system, opened on December 15, had been introduced without a pilot run, directly impacting major collectorates.
Critics argued the lack of preparation and foresight caused this operational bottleneck.
The clearance through the green channel was initially reduced to 30 per cent. However, on Thursday, the ratio surged to over 50 per cent, implemented without any prior notification or established criteria, further complicating the situation.
In the southern region, 44 appraisers and six principal appraisers have been tasked with managing assessments. Their working conditions have come under scrutiny, as the new system enforces 12-hour shifts from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., without additional compensation. Employees must check in at 9 a.m., lock away their mobile phones, and remain confined to the office, disconnected from external communication.
The situation highlights systemic issues with the Faceless Customs Assessment system, which stakeholders are asking authorities to address immediately to avoid further hardships.
