18/12/2024
To:
The Presidents
Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA)
Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI)
All Pakistan Customs Agents Association (APCAA)
Subject: Protest Against Chairman FBR’s Remarks on Customs Agents
Respected Sirs,
I am writing as a proud member of the customs clearing and forwarding community to express my grave concern over the remarks made by the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) during a meeting at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). His statement labeling customs agents as “middlemen,” “blackmailers,” and “black sheep” is not only highly offensive but also undermines the integrity of a profession that plays a pivotal role in Pakistan's trade ecosystem.
As a licensed customs consultant (CHAL #2710), I can attest to the dedication and expertise our community brings to facilitating trade and ensuring compliance with customs regulations. While there may be isolated instances of misconduct, painting the entire community with the same brush is both unfair and damaging to our collective reputation.
Customs agents are not merely intermediaries; we are highly trained professionals who understand the complexities of customs tariffs, laws, and procedures. By simplifying processes for importers and exporters, we contribute to the smooth functioning of the trade system and the generation of revenue for the government.
I strongly protest the Chairman's sweeping generalization and suggest that such remarks only create division and mistrust instead of addressing real issues. The government should focus on collaboration, consultation, and targeted measures to address malpractice, rather than vilifying an entire community.
I urge KCAA, FPCCI, and APCAA to take immediate notice of these remarks and demand a public retraction and clarification from the Chairman FBR. Furthermore, it is crucial to engage with the FBR to advocate for the recognition and protection of customs agents' critical role in national trade.
If no action is taken, I, along with my fellow customs agents, reserve the right to escalate this matter and defend the dignity of our profession.
Sincerely,
Abdul Khaliq
Proprietor, omitrade Associates (Customs Agent)
CHAL #2710, Karachi
