20000304

Custom processing

examiners'

discretionary

powers withdrawn

KARACHI: The Central Board of Revenue (CBR) has withdrawn discretionary powers of the Custom processing examiners for declaring consignment as stocklot, joblot or "B" grade unless it is found to be sheer waste or rags which cannot be sold as fabrics.

S M A Rizvi, convenor Council of Textile Association (CTA), said here on Friday the decision was taken by the new secretary commerce following his meeting with the representatives of the Towel Manufacturers Association (TMA), who took up the matter with him, some five days ago.

He said the matter had remained unresolved for the past six years since CBR issued a circular in March 1994, denying duty drawback on sheer pieces or in fact waste which are not to be sold as fabrics.

The processing officers and customs examiners were allegedly misusing this circular by declaring normal consignments as stocklots.

Lauding the attitude of secretary commerce who looked into the matter personally, CTA convenor said it was a pleasant surprise and a unique episode for the CBR.

Rizvi said this matter would have taken at least six years, as CTA had taken up this matter with CBR and other senior officials in the past but to no avail.

He hoped that this attitude will be followed by other officials of the ministry of commerce and the CBR ensuring resolving issues otherwise hampering national economy.ÑAPP