Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has issued a directive instructing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to require all international airlines to submit their cargo manifests directly into the Customs WeBOC (Web-Based One Customs) system. This move is aimed at addressing critical weaknesses in the cargo clearance process that have allowed organized networks to exploit gaps, enabling manipulation, unauthorized clearances, and pilferage of goods. FTO highlighted that airports remain particularly vulnerable points where such activities threaten both revenue collection and cargo security.
Following a detailed investigation into cargo handling practices at major airports, FTO called for the immediate implementation of stronger controls to ensure transparency and prevent fraudulent activity. Key measures include direct retrieval and independent verification of airline manifests and off-load data, removing reliance on intermediaries that may facilitate manipulation. Additionally, the system is to automatically flag any off-loaded consignment that lacks a corresponding Goods Declaration, allowing authorities to detect irregularities in real time. Full integration of all cargo handling systems with WeBOC is intended to create a single, secure channel for cargo documentation, effectively closing avenues for illicit activities.
The FTO emphasized that these steps are part of a broader effort to digitize and modernize Pakistan’s cargo management ecosystem. By leveraging WeBOC, the government aims to strengthen operational oversight, improve the reliability of customs data, and provide a transparent mechanism for monitoring shipments. The system is expected to reduce opportunities for revenue leakage, enhance the accuracy of cargo declarations, and provide customs authorities with a more efficient tool to track goods throughout the import and export lifecycle.
Industry and aviation officials have noted that digitizing cargo manifests and linking them directly to WeBOC will not only improve compliance but also enhance logistical efficiency. With automated verification and integrated monitoring, the clearance process can be more secure while reducing delays caused by manual checks or document discrepancies. This initiative aligns with ongoing digital governance reforms in Pakistan, reinforcing accountability, and offering a technology-driven solution to long-standing challenges in cargo security and customs enforcement.
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