The Chief Collector of Customs (Export), Mohammad Sadiq, has pledged enhanced cooperation with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) to fortify Pakistan’s export sector.

During his visit to KCCI, Sadiq highlighted the crucial role of collective responsibility in overcoming challenges faced by exporters, emphasizing that exports are the lifeline of the economy.

Speaking at the meeting, Sadiq underscored the longstanding collaboration between customs and KCCI, aiming to facilitate hassle-free processes for exporters nationwide. The meeting also featured insights from Collector of Customs (Export) Irfan Javed, who revealed the establishment of a 24-hour help desk at Customs Headquarters, designed to offer immediate support to exporters. Javed noted the formation of a dedicated WhatsApp group for real-time issue resolution, which includes senior officials and exporters.

President KCCI Jawed Bilwani stressed the need for an export-driven strategy to achieve a positive trade balance and advocated for the removal of unnecessary hurdles faced by exporters. He highlighted logistical challenges and urged improved coordination between customs and cargo handlers for swift clearances, emphasizing the critical need to protect product quality.

Bilwani also addressed sector-specific issues, calling for fair accountability measures to prevent penalizing entire sectors due to the actions of a few. He praised the Export Facilitation Scheme for easing liquidity challenges in the textile sector, which constitutes a significant portion of Pakistan’s exports, while advocating for faster refund processing.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to enhance Pakistan’s export ecosystem through collaboration, efficient facilitation, and transparency.