Maritime minister seeks measures to ease textile exporters’ port issues

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry convened a meeting with textile exporters, port authorities, and customs officials to address the challenges faced by the textile export industry at Pakistani ports. Chaudhry emphasized the need for streamlined customs and port procedures to reduce clearance delays and enhance predictability in transit times for textile shipments.

During the meeting, exporters and representatives from various stakeholders discussed the existing customs clearance procedures and the time taken at different stages. It was agreed that timely filing of Goods Declarations (GDs) and completion of required documentation was essential for smooth cargo clearance. Customs and port authorities provided an overview of their current processes and the factors contributing to delays.

The meeting also focused on improving operational efficiency and reducing cargo dwell time. It was decided to review the scanning process for selected consignments to optimize scheduling and avoid unnecessary delays while adhering to regulatory and security requirements. Chaudhry directed Customs authorities to identify causes of scanning delays and streamline the operations accordingly.

Furthermore, the minister urged the use of the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) and advance electronic processing to facilitate clearance before or immediately upon cargo arrival. This digital approach aims to expedite the clearance process through improved documentation and filing practices.

Exporters raised concerns over longer transit times due to disruptions in international shipping routes, particularly those affected by the situation in the Red Sea. These route changes and extended vessel journeys have created additional challenges for shipments reaching Pakistani ports. The meeting acknowledged the need for both immediate operational measures and long-term improvements in shipping connectivity to address these challenges.

In conclusion, the participants agreed that the issues affecting the competitiveness of Pakistan's textile exports would be addressed through a coordinated mechanism. Chaudhry emphasized the urgency of implementing prompt and practical measures to alleviate port and customs bottlenecks impacting the textile export industry. Subsequent follow-up discussions were scheduled between Customs, exporters, and PSW stakeholders to further discuss cargo dwell time and scanning-related issues.