FBR to Enforce Strict Compliance Measures for Terminal Operators
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced that it will suspend or cancel the registration of terminal operators at seaports, off-dock terminals, dry ports, and land border stations that fail to meet the minimum regulatory requirements.
According to Customs General Order (CGO) 7 of 2025, issued by the FBR, all terminal operators functioning under the Customs Computerized System (CCS) must comply with the minimum standards outlined in Rule 554 of the Customs Rules, 2001. These requirements include standards for:
-
Infrastructure and buildings
-
Cargo examination facilities
-
Security protocols
-
Information technology systems
-
Documentation procedures
ALSO READ
Importers Can Now Virtually File Reviews Against FBR’s Faceless Assessment
Off-dock terminals, as well as dry ports and land border stations registered with CCS, are also bound by Rule 554A and must follow the updated guidelines issued by the FBR in July 2024.
Regular Inspections Every Six Months
To ensure ongoing compliance, the FBR has introduced a biannual inspection protocol:
-
Every six months, regulatory collectorates will conduct inspections of all terminal operators to assess compliance with the required standards.
-
Inspection reports will clearly state whether specific conditions under Rules 554 or 554A are being met.
If deficiencies are identified, terminal operators will be:
-
Officially notified in writing
-
Given a 15-day deadline to rectify the issues and submit a compliance report
Non-Compliance May Lead to Suspension or Cancellation
Terminal operators who fail to address the deficiencies or do not respond to the inspection report will face suspension or cancellation of their registration, under Rule 553 of the Customs Rules, 2001, and Section 155F of the Customs Act, 1969.
However, registrations may be restored if the operator complies with all regulatory requirements and the Regulatory Collector is satisfied with the corrective measures taken.
This move is part of the FBR’s broader strategy to enhance operational transparency, improve logistics infrastructure, and ensure compliance across all customs-related terminal operations in Pakistan. The FBR urges all stakeholders to stay informed and ensure full adherence to the updated regulations.
