The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has taken measures to address the misuse of carnet de-passage/temporary importation of vehicles by foreigners and expatriate Pakistanis.
Through the issuance of SRO 533 (I)/2023 on 08.05.2023, the FBR has amended the rules governing the temporary importation of vehicles under Chapter VI of the Customs Rules 2001.
This article explores the key changes introduced by the new rules, including an updated definition of "tourist" and enhanced monitoring measures involving the Pakistan Customs Computerized System and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has recently implemented SRO 533 (I)/2023, dated 08.05.2023, to combat the misapplication of carnet de-passage/temporary importation of vehicles by foreigners and expatriate Pakistanis.
These new amendments, covering the temporary importation of vehicles' rules as outlined in Chapter VI of the Customs Rules 2001, aim to prevent misuse and ensure effective monitoring of the process. This article examines the key changes introduced by the FBR and their impact on regulating vehicle imports under the carnet facility.
Updated Definition of "Tourist":
To tackle the misuse of carnet de-passage/temporary importation of vehicles, the FBR has revised the definition of "tourist" under the new rules.
This update aims to accurately classify individuals who can legitimately avail of the carnet facility for temporary vehicle importation. By establishing clearer criteria for determining tourist status, the FBR intends to prevent unauthorized individuals from misusing this privilege.
Stringent Monitoring through Pakistan Customs Computerized System:
One of the significant enhancements introduced by the FBR is the utilization of the Pakistan Customs Computerized System to monitor carnet-related information effectively.
By incorporating advanced technology, the FBR aims to strengthen the oversight of vehicle imports under the carnet facility. The system will now flag the passports of tourists with the corresponding carnet documents, facilitating a streamlined reconciliation process and ensuring compliance with temporary importation regulations.
Collaboration with Federal Investigation Agency (FIA):
In its efforts to combat the misuse of carnet de-passage/temporary importation of vehicles, the FBR will establish a close liaison with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
This collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of monitoring and enforcement activities. The FIA's expertise and resources will support the FBR in identifying and addressing any potential violations or irregularities associated with the temporary importation of vehicles.
The issuance of SRO 533 (I)/2023 by the Federal Board of Revenue demonstrates a proactive approach to address the misuse of carnet de-passage/temporary importation of vehicles. By introducing amendments to the rules governing temporary vehicle imports, the FBR aims to prevent unauthorized individuals from exploiting this privilege.
The updated definition of "tourist," along with the enhanced monitoring measures involving the Pakistan Customs Computerized System and collaboration with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), will strengthen the regulation of temporary importation of vehicles.
These efforts will contribute to maintaining transparency, accountability, and the efficient management of carnet-related procedures in Pakistan.
