January 23, 2025 (MLN): In a significant move aimed at digitalizing customs clearance processes, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Single Window (PSW) signed an agreement earlier this week.
The agreement designates PSW as the official technology partner of FBR for the operations, maintenance, enhancement, and transformation of its flagship Web-Based One Customs (WeBOC) system.
This strategic partnership marks a pivotal milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to modernize customs operations and improve trade efficiency at its borders, according to the press release issued today.
PSW is transforming Pakistan's cross-border trade ecosystem through its single window platform, successfully digitalizing processes and integrating the information requirements of 15 government agencies with the PSW system.
It has been operating and maintaining WeBOC since 2022, supporting Pakistan Customs in implementing significant reform initiatives, including the faceless customs assessment system recently launched in Karachi in line with the Prime Minister’s vision.
Its formal onboarding as FBR’s technology partner for transforming the WeBOC system aligns it with international best practices and the single window architecture, further enhancing efficiency and transparency in customs operations and revenue collection.
Under the agreement, PSW will support FBR in upgrading the technical and functional architecture of the WeBOC system.
The goal is to transform it into a next-generation Customs Clearance System that can utilize AI and Machine Learning tools to further reduce human intervention and official discretion.
Key features will include faster processing, enhanced security, and improved compliance mechanisms as well as a more robust risk management system integrated with international databases.
These upgrades aim to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and bolster Pakistan’s global competitiveness in cross-border trade besides improving transparency.
“This partnership strengthens and reaffirms PSW’s leading role in the digitalization of cross border trade” stated Aftab Haider, Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Single Window.
The upgraded WeBOC system will not only enhance the ease of doing business but also ensure that Pakistan remains a regional leader in digital trade transformation, he added.
By bringing together multiple stakeholders on a single platform, PSW’s modernization efforts reinforce Pakistan’s dedication to achieving global standards in trade facilitation.
This collaboration between Pakistan Customs and PSW highlights the transformative role of digital solutions in driving economic progress and fostering global trade partnerships.
Pakistan Single Window (PSW) is a pivotal initiative by the Government of Pakistan aimed at simplifying and streamlining the trade process.
It provides a unified platform for submitting, processing, and approving trade-related documents, playing a crucial role in enhancing Pakistan’s global competitiveness and ensuring compliance with international trade standards.
Beyond the single window platform, PSW has successfully developed and implemented several other digital products, including the Trade Information Portal, Port Community System,
Integrated Risk Management System, and DRAP Clearance Gateway, further facilitating international trade.
Copyright Mettis Link News
Posted on: 2025-01-23T16:17:13+05:00