Pakistan eases Customs clearance

Gavin Lipsith

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Pakistan has reintroduced the green Customs channel at its airports, easing clearance for returning expatriate workers

The move will be welcomed by Pakistan's many expatriate workers, who often take advantage of cheaper prices overseas to return with household products and gifts. Several passengers have complained that under the old system Customs officials would often demand bribes to guarantee smooth clearance.

Prime minister Aziz revived the green channel and asked the Central Board of Revenue to clamp down on corrupt Customs officials, warning senior bureaucrats that he would personally check that his orders were carried out at airports.

Duty-free operators in the Gulf states will also appreciate the move given the large population of Pakistani expatriate workers in those countries, particularly in the UAE. The green channel was originally introduced to Pakistan by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif as a concession to the country's expatriates.