Controversial import policy: 450 containers stuck at KICT

16 Jun, 2012

At least 450 import containers comprising wooden packaging have been stuck at Karachi International Containers Terminal (KICT), due to wrong interpretation of Import Policy, said Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA) on Friday.
According to the statement issued here, the association said the Plant and Protection Department (PPD) has started halting all consignments having wooden packaging, due to wrong interpretation of import policy. It said the PPD had earlier issued PPRO only on those import consignments destined for any plant.
However, all consignments having wooden packaging to protect the imported goods including machinery, tyres, yarns, glass, chemical, auto parts are also being halted during couple of days.
The association further said the terminal operators are rationalising the said act as interpretation of import policy, however the policy did not have any directive to do the same.
It said the issue had also been highlighted in the meeting held between the association and the officials of PPD and terminal operators. During the meeting, the officials of PPD have given assurance to the association not to stop any consignment till June 30.
However, over 450 containers are still waiting for clearance, due to the said reason. The association urged the concerned authority to look into the matter as the same is not only creating congestion at ports but also putting excessive financial burden on the importers in terms of detention and demurrage.-PR

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