Web based one Custom (WeBOC) System is locally developed Custom Computerized System, which allows paper less transaction in custom clearance system. Since inception of custom computerized system, it is realised that the system must function on the principle of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) with various other organisations, with which custom has a regular communication network (eg Terminals/Ports).
Electronic data interchange (EDI) is the structured transmission of data between organisations by electronic means. It is used to transfer electronic documents or business data from one computer system to another computer system, ie from one trading partner to another trading partner without human intervention. The successful implementation of EDI amongst all the relevant departments / organisations provides significant advantage to the organisation in particular and to the country in general. EDI effectively resolves problems inherent in paper-based transaction processing and in other forms of electronic communication.
EDI is a tool that enables government and organisation to re-engineer information flow and business process. Before the implementation of Custom Computerized system at Karachi ports, the clearances of Import / Export consignments were slow and there were huge time delays, which increased the business cost substantially. The Custom computerized system has developed an EDI links with Terminal operators hence send / receive message to the Port authorities in real time basis and done away with the previous paper based messaging to Terminal operator for grounding the cargo for examination or for giving delivery of the consignment to the trader, after Custom process is finalised.
The EDI link also resulted in error free data storage with both the organisation and hence EDI permits used access to a vast amount of detailed transaction data. Similarly, Pakistan Custom is also working to develop an EDI link with the Custom Administration of neighbouring countries specially Afghanistan Custom to facilitate, reconcile and monitor the Transit Trade, effectively.
Implementation of EDI will provide significant advantages to both Pakistan and Afghanistan Custom Administration particularly with reference to putting in place an effective Transit Monitoring System, where by all the transit consignment will reconcile through System-to-System electronic data messaging, indicating discrepancies eg with respect to containers not reaching the destination in assigned timelines. EDI will also pave the way to extend this messaging system to Central Asian states as well as to ECO countries.
Custom computerized system is also working to develop EDI with Airlines and ground handless like DNATA and DHL for manifest filing of cargo transported through Air, which will help receive flight data before arrival of the aircraft. This will not only help Custom to scrutinise the cargo before filing of the good Declaration but will eventually help immigration department to scrutinise the human traffic before the arrival of flight. This will make Pakistan a pioneer member of E- freight compliance club.
Pakistan Custom intends to present itself as a role model for other Public sector organisations/ departments for introducing paper less environment through Computerisation of their business processes and adopt EDI for communication and information sharing with its partner organisations.
(The writer is Additional Director Weboc.)
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