PESHAWAR (Khyber Mail): A grand ceremony marking International Customs Day was held at the Collectorate of Customs, Customs House Peshawar. Member Taxpayer Services, Saeed Akram, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

In his address, Saeed Akram highlighted that International Customs Day is observed annually under the World Customs Organization (WCO) with a specific theme. This year’s theme, “Customs delivering on its commitment to efficiency, security, and prosperity,” holds special relevance for Pakistan’s current circumstances.
He emphasized that the primary role of Pakistan Customs is to facilitate trade, ensure national security, and curb illegal activities. Pakistan Customs contributes significantly to the national economy, accounting for approximately 45% of the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) total revenue collection. This plays a vital role in advancing Pakistan’s prosperity, security, and operational efficiency.
Saeed Akram further noted that Pakistan Customs was a pioneer in automating its systems in the region, establishing the first fully automated collectorate in the country. He remarked that Pakistan introduced automation at a time when even many developed nations had not yet achieved this level of technological advancement.
Discussing the Single Window System, he explained how it integrates various departments involved in customs clearance onto a single platform. This system eliminates the need for traders to navigate multiple departments, providing all necessary NOCs and documents in one place.
He added that Pakistan Customs is not only a regional leader but also setting global benchmarks in automation. Last year, FBR collected a record revenue of PKR 9.3 billion, and this year’s target has been set 40% higher. Saeed Akram expressed confidence that the efforts of all departments would ensure the achievement of this ambitious target.
He also shed light on FBR’s digital transformation journey, in which Pakistan Customs plays a pivotal role, aiming to provide equal opportunities to traders. By December 2024, the department successfully met its targets and remains committed to achieving future milestones.
The ceremony concluded with the chief guest distributing shields to the families of customs martyrs and certificates of excellence to officials for outstanding performance during the passing-out parade.
Saeed Akram closed his address with a vision of collective efforts to steer Pakistan towards becoming a globally developed and respected nation.