Karachi, December 26, 2024 – The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced the implementation of a new point-scoring mechanism for customs agents, aimed at enhancing efficiency and accountability in the consignment declaration process. The initiative was formalized through SRO 2071(I)/2024, issued on December 24, 2024. Under the new system, customs agents will be subject to a point-based evaluation tied to their performance in accurately declaring consignments. Points will be deducted for violations such as misdeclaration, false statements, and errors in description, classification, valuation, origin, or unit of measurement. The FBR stated that a reduction in aggregate points to zero would result in the automatic blocking of the agent’s license and initiate proceedings for revocation or cancellation. “A license shall be blocked and proceedings for revocation or cancellation shall be initiated in cases where aggregate points are reduced to zero or when an agent fails to file any goods declaration within the past year and does not appear for identification and confirmation before the licensing authority,” the FBR outlined. The computerized customs system will monitor agents’ adherence to regulations and apply penalties through automatic point deductions. Agents begin with an aggregate of 50 points, which are gradually reduced based on violations. Restoration of blocked…